£700,000 resurfacing scheme begins on A2 Coast Road in Ballygally, Larne

Ballygally, County Antrim

A significant £700,000 road resurfacing project has commenced along the A2 Coast Road in Ballygally, Larne, as announced by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins.

The scheme, which began on Monday, 22 September 2025, aims to enhance approximately 2km of carriageway, replace kerbs, and improve footways, delivering substantial benefits to local residents, businesses, and commuters.

The project is part of a broader commitment by the Department for Infrastructure to bolster Northern Ireland’s road and footway network, ensuring safer and more reliable travel for communities and businesses.

Minister Kimmins highlighted the importance of the investment, stating:

“This is a substantial investment for the Ballygally area which will deliver significant benefits for residents and road users. The investment demonstrates my commitment to improving our road and footway network, which is vital for connecting our businesses and communities.”

Project Details and Timeline

The resurfacing works will cover a 2km stretch of the A2 Coast Road through Ballygally village. To ensure the safety of workers and road users, the project will be carried out in two phases:

1.  Phase 1: Footway Works (22 September – Early November 2025)

A lane closure will be in place for approximately six weeks to facilitate footway improvements. This phase will involve replacing kerbs and upgrading pedestrian pathways, enhancing accessibility and safety for residents.

2.  Phase 2: Carriageway Works (Early November – 28 November 2025)

A full road closure will be implemented from 08:30 to 16:30, Monday to Friday, for approximately four weeks to complete the resurfacing of the carriageway. This closure is necessary to ensure the high-quality delivery of the roadworks.

Subject to favourable weather conditions, the project is expected to be substantially complete by Wednesday, 28 November 2025. The Department for Infrastructure has pledged to keep the public informed of any changes to the schedule.

Traffic Diversions and Management

To minimise disruption, the Department has planned traffic management arrangements and diversionary routes during the road closure periods. The signed diversions are as follows:

•  Southbound traffic (towards Larne): Vehicles will be diverted via Drumnagreagh Road, Ballymullock Road, Drumahoe Road, and the A8 Ballymena Road.

•  Northbound traffic (towards Carnlough): Vehicles will follow a route via Branch Road, Old Glenarm Road, Croft Road, Ballymullock Road, and Drumnagreagh Road.

While efforts have been made to maintain local access throughout the project, road users are advised to expect some delays and to plan for additional travel time when navigating the Ballygally area.

The Department has urged drivers to comply with all temporary traffic restrictions to ensure the safety of both workers and the public.

Minister Kimmins acknowledged the potential inconvenience, saying:

“I would like to thank residents, local businesses, and commuters for their patience while this essential infrastructure work is carried out.”

Community and Economic Benefits

The £700,000 investment is expected to deliver long-term benefits for the Ballygally area, improving the quality of the A2 Coast Road, a vital artery for local residents and businesses.

The upgraded road and footway network will enhance connectivity, making travel safer and more efficient for commuters and visitors alike. The project also underscores the Department for Infrastructure’s commitment to supporting economic growth by maintaining critical transport links across Northern Ireland.

Local businesses, which rely heavily on the A2 Coast Road for trade and tourism, are expected to benefit from the improved infrastructure. The enhanced footways will also make the area more accessible for pedestrians, supporting Ballygally’s reputation as a welcoming coastal village.

Public Information and Updates

The Department for Infrastructure has assured residents and road users that it will provide regular updates on the progress of the works. Any changes to the schedule, particularly those influenced by weather conditions, will be communicated promptly to minimise disruption.

For those travelling in the area, the Department recommends checking for updates on traffic management and road conditions before setting out.

Motorists are encouraged to follow signage and adhere to temporary speed limits and restrictions to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

This resurfacing scheme marks a significant step forward in improving Northern Ireland’s infrastructure, with the A2 Coast Road project serving as a testament to the government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and supporting local communities.