Paul Frew calls for urgent safety measures on Ballymena’s Galgorm Road amid high accident rates

DUP North Antrim MLA Paul Frew, and Councillor Reuben Glover at the junction of Dans Road and Galgorm Road

DUP MLA Paul Frew has urged authorities to act swiftly to address what he describes as the “much higher than would be expected” number of road traffic accidents on a key stretch of the Galgorm Road in Ballymena.

Mr Frew and Alderman Reuben Glover have been approached by numerous concerned residents regarding safety issues on the section between Cambridge Avenue and the Dans Road—a busy route linking Ballymena to the surrounding villages of Galgorm, Ahoghill and Portglenone.

The road is also a major artery for pupils travelling to Ballymena Academy and Cambridge House Grammar School.

Highlighting the scale of public concern, Mr Frew said:

“We have been contacted by many concerned constituents and residents of the Galgorm Road regarding the safety of the stretch of road between Cambridge Avenue and the Dans Road. By any reasonable assessment, the number of accidents on this stretch of road is unfortunately much higher than would be expected.”

He emphasised the importance of improving safety on what is one of the area’s busiest commuter and school routes.

“This road serves as one of the main routes connecting Ballymena Town to the neighbouring villages of Galgorm, Ahoghill and Portglenone as well as serving two major schools, Ballymena Academy and Cambridge House.

“The importance of safety on this road is paramount given the heavy traffic flow and proximity to two of our major schools.”

Mr Frew confirmed that discussions are ongoing with relevant authorities to seek intervention, with Alderman Glover having already hosted a site meeting to assess potential improvements.

“We are liaising with all relevant departments and authorities to seek major safety improvements along this particular stretch of road and Alderman Glover has hosted a site meeting so I hope that these improvements will see frequency of traffic accidents reduced and enhanced safety for pedestrians using this road,” he added.

The MLA reaffirmed his commitment to continuing to press for action, saying:

“We will continue to raise these issues at every opportunity to ensure our roads are as safe as possible for drivers and pedestrians alike.”

Local residents have long voiced concerns about accidents and near-misses along the route, particularly during school opening and closing times when pedestrian activity is at its highest.

The call from Mr Frew and Alderman Glover adds renewed political pressure for substantial safety upgrades.