Improvement works set to start in Ballyclare

The work is expected to last for approximately four months. The works are to upgrade existing pavements and street lighting in the Lower Main Street, Ballynure Road and Mill Road areas.

A spokesperson from the council said: “The works will be taking place from 9.30am until 4pm Monday to Friday, therefore we expect the afternoon school pick-up period to be particularly busy in the town. A two-way-system will remain in Lower Main Street. However, as the scheme progresses a temporary traffic management system will be in place which will mean that there will be no exit from the town from firstly the Mill Road and then the Ballynure Road for three to four weeks at a time. In addition there will be no right turn from Avondale Drive to Lower Main Street at certain periods. Alternative routes via Ballyeaston and Doagh will be available.”

South Antrim UUP MP Danny Kinahan has been assured that a traffic management plan has been drawn up by the contractor on the scheme and that this has been agreed with Ulsterbus. He is keen to support the coordinated planning, but is also aware, given past experience, that such schemes are often the cause of delays and great inconvenience for retailers and members of the public.

Mr Kinahan said: “During this time I want the people of Ballyclare, both traders and members of the public, to know that my office will be there to provide support, to relay feedback on the works and to ensure that everyone keeps to their commitments on minimising inconvenience. In general the works will be taking place from 9.30am until 4pm, Monday to Friday. Some works on Main Street adjacent to the roundabout will need to be carried out either at weekends or evenings.”

The UUP man added: “Given the obstructive nature of these works, a concern I share with many constituents that have discussed the scheme with me is that of access for the emergency services. On this I have been assured that the contractor will adhere to the ‘blue light’ protocol throughout the works. A procedure is also in place to allow firefighters to get to the Fire Station.”