PSNI prepares response as fuel price protest targets Ballymena roundabouts tonight

Seven Towers Roundabout, Ballymena

Police have confirmed they are preparing a response to planned protests across Ballymena this evening, with multiple key roundabouts identified as potential flashpoints amid rising discontent over fuel costs.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland said it is aware of calls circulating online for coordinated action from 5:00pm on Friday, 17 April, as demonstrators threaten to “shut down the town” in protest at soaring prices linked to escalating conflict in the Middle East.

Protest calls spread across social media

A poster widely shared online is urging people to gather at several major junctions in the Ballymena area, signalling what organisers describe as a more forceful approach after earlier demonstrations failed to deliver change.

The message reads:

“Nationwide protests came and went and nothing changed. Now the people of Ballymena are taking a stand. Enough talk. Enough waiting. Enough being ignored. This Friday, we shut down the town and make our voices impossible to ignore.”

The planned action is being organised in response to rising fuel costs, which campaigners link to recent tensions in the Middle East following attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel.

Key roundabouts identified

The poster specifically names four major roundabouts where protests are expected to take place:

• Larne Road Roundabout

• Seven Towers Roundabout

• Galgorm Roundabout

• Ecos Roundabout

All four locations are among the busiest traffic points in Ballymena, raising the prospect of significant disruption for motorists during the evening period.

Police preparations underway

In a statement issued on Friday, a PSNI spokesperson confirmed officers are actively preparing for the potential impact of the demonstrations.

“Police are aware of posters online calling for protests at various locations across Northern Ireland.

“Preparations for a policing response are underway to ensure public safety and to help minimise any potential disruption to the wider community.”

No details have been provided on the scale of the planned police operation or whether traffic diversions or road closures may be implemented.

Rising tensions over fuel costs

The protest comes against a backdrop of renewed concern over fuel prices, with global instability contributing to upward pressure on costs at the pump.

Organisers appear to be tapping into wider frustration, arguing that previous nationwide protests failed to produce meaningful change and that more direct action is now required.

Potential disruption across the town

With demonstrations touted to begin from 5:00pm, commuters travelling through Ballymena during peak hours may face delays, congestion, or temporary road blockages depending on turnout and the nature of the protests.

The inclusion of multiple roundabouts suggests a coordinated effort to impact traffic flow across different parts of the town simultaneously.

Police have indicated their focus will be on maintaining public safety while attempting to limit disruption to the wider community.

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At a glance

• PSNI preparing response to planned protests in Ballymena on Friday evening

• Demonstrations expected from 5:00pm at major roundabouts

• Protest linked to rising fuel costs amid Middle East tensions

• Social media poster calls to “shut down the town”

• Four locations identified: Larne Road, Seven Towers, Galgorm and Ecos roundabouts

• Police say preparations underway to ensure safety and minimise disruption

• Potential for significant traffic delays during evening peak