PSNI warn illegally parked vehicles will be towed during Ould Lammas Fair in Ballycastle

The Diamond, Ballycastle.

Image: Anne Kelly

Drivers are being warned that vehicles parked illegally during Ballycastle’s Ould Lammas Fair will be towed away, as police enforce strict traffic and parking restrictions from Saturday 23rd to Tuesday 26th August.

The PSNI has urged visitors to plan ahead and follow diversions, with thousands expected to descend on the town for Ireland’s oldest traditional fair.

Emergency access routes must be kept clear at all times, and officers have confirmed that any vehicles found blocking these roads will be removed without hesitation.

Saturday evening fireworks

The fair begins on Saturday 23rd August with a fireworks display at the seafront from 9.30pm. Drivers should expect delays before, during and after the event.

Sunday concert closures

On Sunday 24th August, a live concert at The Diamond will see road closures from 7pm, affecting:

• Castle Street

• The Diamond

• Ann Street

• The upper section of Fairhill Street (between The Diamond and Mill Street)

• Market Street (from Clare Street to The Diamond)

Monday and Tuesday – main fair days

The busiest days of the Ould Lammas Fair fall on Monday 25th and Tuesday 26th August, when stalls and entertainment will extend across Castle Street, The Diamond, Ann Street, Fairhill Street, Quay Road and the Seafront.

Police have confirmed diversions will be in place via Whitepark Road, North Street and Mary Street, with all roads surrounding The Diamond also affected.

Parking restrictions

Parking will be restricted across the weekend, but on Monday and Tuesday stricter enforcement will apply.

Vehicles will not be permitted to park along emergency access routes at:

• Fairhill Street

• Mill Street

• Kilns Road

• Market Street

• Moyle Road

“These restrictions will be strictly enforced,” police said, warning that any vehicles found blocking the route will be towed away.

Disabled parking

Blue badge holders will still be able to park on one designated side of Market Street during the fair. Police have asked drivers to respect the marked areas and avoid blocking emergency access routes.

Park and ride and coach parking

To ease congestion, park and ride facilities will be available on Monday and Tuesday, with signage directing drivers to Whitepark Road. Visiting coaches will be able to park at Ramoan Road and Leyland Road (from its junction with Coleraine Road to Ramoan Road).

Some Translink bus services will also be impacted, with passengers advised to check the Translink website for up-to-date information on diversions and temporary stops.

Police on the ground

A PSNI spokesperson confirmed:

“Officers will be on the ground to assist the large volume of visitors expected, but please follow any diversions that are in place for your safety and the safety of others.”