To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline the economic benefits of the (i) A5; (ii) A6; and (iii) York Street interchange.

The A5 Western Transport Corridor, York Street Interchange and A6 schemes will provide significant direct economic benefits. Benefits include reduced journey times, improved road safety and savings in vehicle operating costs. In accordance with standard transport appraisal methodology, benefits are typically measured in the form of a Benefit to Cost ratio. The current estimated Benefit to Cost ratio for each scheme is listed in the table below. These figures may change as scheme development continues.

My Department is progressing two separate projects on the A6 route; the Randalstown to Castledawson and Derry to Dungiven schemes. Figures for both A6 projects have been included.

The Benefit to Cost ratio demonstrates the level of return on investment. For example, every £1 spent on the A5 Western Transport Corridor should deliver £1.88 of benefits over the standard 60 year appraisal period.

In addition to the direct economic benefits considered as part of the ratios above, each scheme may deliver wider economic benefits. These wider benefits may include increased productivity due to improved accessibility between businesses, enhanced business profitability due to reduced transport costs and access to a wider labour pool; all of which encourage investment.