UFU: ‘Alarming absence' of clear communication on A5 project
The Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) has highlighted the challenges and 'prolonged disruption' faced by farm families due to the ongoing A5 Western Transport Corridor project.
The UFU addressed the Committee for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (AERA) and the Committee for Infrastructure at Stormont yesterday (June 3).
It said that it recognises the significance of the project, particularly its potential impact on road safety and regional connectivity.
However, the UFU has concerns regarding the scheme's impact on agricultural business, land vesting and the 'dire lack of communication' from government departments and contractors.
A5 project
The UFU's technical and communications manager, James McCluggage believes that there is an 'alarming absence' of consistent communication from all parties involved.
McCluggage said: 'Farmers and their appointed agents are reporting a significant communication breakdown. There are few 'liaison officers' on the ground, leaving landowners without a direct point of contact for their numerous questions and problems.
'Also, road contractors are consistently failing to inform landowners about works affecting their land, leading to frustration about construction schedules, access arrangements and business implications.'
The UFU also told the committees that it has concerns about the vesting process and compensation.
'Landowners are demanding transparency on the vesting price, with a clear rationale provided by the district valuer. Many have seen their land vested and works commence, yet they are still awaiting any compensation or even a valuation,' McCluggage explained.
'This is simply unacceptable. We are also deeply concerned about the economic impact this is already having on farmers, with a noticeable decrease in production this year.'
According to McCluggage, there was 'significant' confusion for some farmers when updating their maps before the Single Application Form (SAF) deadline on May 15.
He said: 'There needs to be some form of force majeure provision for these landowners this year, as mistakes may understandably have been made due to the ongoing disruption.
'We stressed the urgent need for clarity on the planning of essential permanent infrastructure, such as new farm sheds, at an early stage, with the full authority of the Planning Service NI.
'The current method for calculating process contributions in planning applications, particularly for upgrading or replacing existing agricultural infrastructure, is flawed.
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