Homes demolition threat
New homes being constructed along the A6 road could face being tumbled within a few years to make way for a dual carriageway.
By Orla McNicholl
Despite planners continuing to grant planning permission for the construction of new properties, these homes could face being knocked down for the construction of the A6 dual carriageway and bypass of Dungiven.
The news came at last week’s public exhibition, which was held in Dungiven, to show the possible routes for the dual carriageway road between Derry and Dungiven, including the bypass of Dungiven.
Speaking on the five possible routes which were on display at the event, Ronnie Faloon, of the Roads Service, confirmed that properties in the area may be at risk.
He said: “When building a new road, properties will be at risk, it is inevitable.
“We cannot do this work without causing damage to farm land and properties.”
When asked about how people, who have submitted planning applications for the construction of new properties in the area, would be affected, Mr Faloon said: “We do try to minimise the loss of property but it would be a left hand, right hand scenario.
“We cannot put words into planner’s mouths, they are attentive of the problems.
“Only when we get the preferred route then we will get teeth to defend or refuse planning applications.”
“We will take into account any comments we get here which will help us in deciding the best possible route,” he concluded.
The Roads Service hope to announce the preferred route by Spring 2009, before they move towards a public enquiry, where they will examine the impact the preferred route would have on land and property.
