£816,000 Ballyrobin Road resurfacing scheme begins near Belfast International Airport
A major £816,000 road improvement scheme has begun on Ballyrobin Road near Belfast International Airport, with motorists being warned to expect delays over the coming weeks.
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins announced the carriageway resurfacing works on Tuesday, saying the investment would improve a key stretch of road in the Antrim area.
The scheme covers approximately two kilometres of Ballyrobin Road, running between the A26 Killead Roundabout and the A57 Airport Roundabout.
Work to continue throughout October
The Department for Infrastructure said a combination of daytime lane restrictions and overnight road closures will be required while the resurfacing takes place.
Initial lane closures began on Monday, with traffic being controlled by temporary traffic signals.
Full overnight closures are then planned between the Airport Roundabout and Killead Roundabout from 7pm until 6amduring three separate periods:
- 5–9 October
- 12–16 October
- 19–23 October
Further daytime lane closures are planned between 9.30am and 4.30pm from 26–30 October.
The Department expects the work to be substantially completed by Friday 30 October, subject to favourable weather conditions.
Airport passengers warned to allow extra time
The location of the works means the disruption could particularly affect passengers travelling to and from Belfast International Airport.
During the full closures, traffic approaching the airport from Killead Roundabout will be diverted via Oldstone Road, Belfast Road, Belmont Road and Dublin Road.
A separate diversion will operate for HGV traffic to avoid the low bridge on Oldstone Road.
Local access will be accommodated where possible, while Translink bus and school services are also expected to continue operating throughout the scheme.
However, motorists have been advised to expect delays and allow additional journey time, particularly when travelling to the airport.
‘Substantial investment’ for Antrim area
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said the £816,000 investment would provide significant benefits for residents and road users and improve the strength and surface quality of the road.
She also thanked residents, businesses and commuters for their patience while the work is carried out.
The Department said traffic management arrangements have been designed to minimise disruption and that motorists should follow all temporary restrictions while the scheme is under way.