The civil servant responded that she was “content” that the value-for-money aspect of the scheme was supported by various business cases, but she accepted that delays due to court proceedings were perhaps “not the most value-for-money way forward”.

“But that’s the democratic process. In my view the costs incurred to date are not considered disproportionate when you look at the length of the scheme and the work that has been done to date,” she added.

Buckley said failures to begin work on the road were tantamount to a “dog’s dinner” and that there was a great deal of public concern regarding uncertainty about the scheme.

“All major works incur significant costs before works commence,” said Ms Morelli, who added that accountability and due process had been followed at all times by the department.

Morelli insisted that her officials had a “well-founded track record” of delivering major roads projects and that they remain committed to delivering the executive’s commitment to the A5.

“I do appreciate £200m spent to date will be subject to further scrutiny, and it should be, but as we stand here today I as accounting officer am content with the spend we have incurred to date,” she added.