Pride parade and protests set to bring road closures and police operation to Ballymena today
- Love Ballymena
- Jun 20
- 2 min read
Motorists and shoppers in Ballymena are being advised to plan ahead today as Mid and East Antrim Pride takes place in the town, bringing temporary road closures, traffic disruption and an increased police presence.
The Pride parade is expected to draw participants and supporters into the town centre on Saturday afternoon, June 20, while separate protest activity is also anticipated in parts of Ballymena.
Police have said they will have additional officers on duty to help ensure public safety and manage the various events taking place.
The parade is due to assemble in the Waveney Road area at approximately 1pm before setting off at 2pm.
It will travel along Galgorm Road towards Pentagon before continuing through Mill Street, Wellington Street, Broughshane Street, William Street, Ballymoney Street and Greenvale Street.
The procession is expected to conclude at around 3pm.
As a result, motorists are likely to encounter delays and temporary road closures along the route, with police encouraging people to allow extra travel time if they plan to be in the town centre during the afternoon.
Police preparing for increased activity
The PSNI said an increased policing operation will be in place throughout the event and has urged those attending, protesting or travelling through the area to follow officers’ directions and respect others.
The force highlighted the significance of Pride events for members of the LGBT+ community and those who wish to show their support.
Police said they want LGBT+ people across Mid and East Antrim to feel represented by the Police Service and confident that any reports of incidents, particularly hate crimes, will be treated fairly and respectfully.
The force also used the occasion to remind people that support is available for anyone who has experienced hate crime related to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Separate protest activity expected
Alongside the Pride celebrations, police have confirmed that protest activity is expected to take place in the Harmony Hub and Broughshane Street areas.
The activity is anticipated to remain peaceful, according to police.
Officers will monitor both events and have appealed for cooperation from everyone involved to help ensure the day passes safely and without incident.
Advice for the public
Police are advising members of the public to:
• Allow extra time for journeys in and around Ballymena town centre
• Follow directions from police officers and event stewards
• Be aware of temporary road closures and diversions
• Respect the rights of others taking part in lawful events and protests
Further information on protests and parading can be found at:
Information on how the PSNI supports victims of sexual orientation or gender identity hate crime is available at:
With both the Pride parade and protest activity taking place in Ballymena today, police are encouraging residents, visitors and participants alike to remain patient, respectful and mindful of disruption as the events unfold.
