Busy Ballymena road to be resurfaced this summer as councillors welcome long-awaited upgrade

A major resurfacing scheme is set to take place this summer on one of Ballymena’s busiest approach roads, with work planned on the main route from Galgorm into the town.

The resurfacing will cover the stretch from the double roundabout at Tullyglass to the Grange Road junction, a key artery used daily by local residents, commuters and businesses travelling in and out of Ballymena.

The planned works were confirmed in a statement issued by TUV councillors Stewart McDonald and Matthew Armstrong, who said the long-awaited investment would bring a significant improvement to a route that has been a source of frustration for some time.

Key summer resurfacing scheme confirmed

In their statement, the councillors said:

“We are pleased to learn that the main road from Galgorm into Ballymena will be resurfaced this summer. The work will take place from the double roundabout at Tullyglass to the Grange Road junction.”

The scheme is expected to address concerns over the condition of the road surface on a route widely regarded as one of the most heavily used approaches into the town.

For many drivers travelling between Galgorm and Ballymena, the stretch serves as a vital daily connection, linking residential areas, local businesses and commuter traffic with the wider town network.

Disruption expected — but outside school term pressures

While the improvement works are being welcomed, motorists have been warned to expect disruption during the period of resurfacing.

The councillors acknowledged that temporary delays and inconvenience are likely while the scheme is under way, but said the timing had been chosen to reduce the impact on families and regular traffic flows.

“Obviously this will result in a degree of disruption while the work takes place, but it will avoid school time and we believe it will result in much needed improvement,” they said.

Scheduling the work outside school-time pressures is likely to ease congestion on a route that can become particularly busy during morning and afternoon peak periods.

Long-standing frustration over road condition

The current condition of the road has been a long-running issue for many motorists using the route.

Describing the importance of the stretch, the councillors said:

“This is a well-used and important route for local residents, commuters and businesses, and its current condition has been a source of frustration for some time.”

The resurfacing is expected to improve driving conditions, reduce wear and tear on vehicles, and enhance safety and comfort for those using the road on a daily basis.

The investment also comes amid wider calls for continued improvements to local infrastructure across the Ballymena area.

Call for continued investment in local roads

Stewart McDonald and Matthew Armstrong said they had repeatedly raised the need for further investment in the local road network.

“We have consistently raised the need for investment in our road network, and we welcome this commitment to improving infrastructure in the Ballymena area,” they said.

The resurfacing of the Galgorm route is likely to be seen as a significant upgrade for one of the town’s key transport corridors, particularly for commuters travelling between residential areas on the outskirts and Ballymena town centre.

Road users urged to plan ahead

Motorists are now being urged to prepare for temporary disruption once dates for the work are confirmed.

“We would encourage all road users to plan ahead during the works and to bear with the temporary inconvenience, as the long-term benefits will be significant,” the councillors added.

They also said they would continue liaising with the relevant department to ensure the scheme is delivered efficiently.

“We will continue to engage with the Department to ensure the work is carried out efficiently and with minimal disruption to the public.”

Further details, including the precise start date and duration of the resurfacing works, are expected in due course.

---

At a glance

• Main road from Galgorm into Ballymena to be resurfaced this summer

• Works to run from Tullyglass double roundabout to Grange Road junction

• Route is a key road for residents, commuters and businesses

• Temporary disruption expected during works

• Scheme scheduled to avoid school-time traffic pressures

• Councillors say current road condition has caused long-term frustration

• Long-term benefits expected for drivers and local infrastructure

• Further details on dates and duration expected