PSNI warns of delays: Full routes for Royal Black parades in Co Antrim and beyond

Motorists across Northern Ireland are being advised to expect significant traffic disruptions this Saturday, 30 August, as the annual Royal Black Preceptory demonstrations take place in multiple locations.

The events, which draw large crowds and involve parades with bands and participants, will affect key roads in Belfast and beyond, with police urging drivers to plan alternative routes and allow extra time for journeys—particularly those heading to airports or other time-sensitive destinations.

The demonstrations, a longstanding tradition marking the last Saturday in August, will see parades in north, west, south, and east Belfast, as well as in towns such as Ballyclare, Antrim, Dundrum, Cookstown, Limavady, and Castlederg. Smaller events in Newry,

Ballynahinch, Armagh, Banbridge, and Dromore, along with feeder parades in the Fermanagh and Omagh areas, may also cause localised delays.

North Belfast

In north Belfast, the parade is scheduled to commence at approximately 9.15am from Fleetwood Street, proceeding along Crumlin Road, Carlisle Circus, Clifton Street, Donegall Street, Royal Avenue, and Donegall Square before concluding at Linenhall Street.

The return leg will follow the same route, starting at around 5.15pm from Linenhall Street.

West Belfast

A separate parade in west Belfast will depart from West Belfast Orange Hall, travelling via Shankill Road, Peters Hill, North Street, and Royal Avenue to York Street.

The return journey, beginning at 5.30pm, will reverse this route.

South Belfast

South Belfast’s event will start at 9.15am from Ballynafeigh Orange Hall, moving along Ormeau Road and Stranmillis Embankment, with the return parade at approximately 5.30pm following the same path.

East Belfast

In east Belfast, the main parade will begin at around 9.15am on Templemore Avenue, heading along Newtownards Road, Bridge End, Queens Quay, and onto Station Street. The return, starting at 5.30pm, will trace the route in reverse.

Ballyclare

Further afield, Ballyclare will experience road closures from 10.30am on Ballynure Road, with additional restrictions in the town centre from 11.30am until about 6pm. Drivers should anticipate delays and diversions.

Antrim

In Antrim, Fountain Street will be closed from 10.30am, with wider town closures between 11.30am and 7pm, leading to expected disruptions.

Dundrum

Dundrum’s parade will disrupt traffic from 9am, with the main event starting at 11.30am. Bands and supporters will assemble on Belfast Road before proceeding along Main Street to Old Road and Ballyloughlin Road.

The return parade will commence at 4pm from Ballyloughlin Road, reversing the route back to Belfast Road.

Cookstown

In Cookstown, assemblies begin at Grange Road around 11am, with the parade setting off at midday. The route includes Tullywiggan Road, Killymoon Street, Church Street, Chapel Street, Loy Street, James Street, William Street, Oldtown Street, Millburn Street, Moneymore Road, and East Circular Road to the demonstration field.

At 3.30pm, the parade will reform and travel via Moneymore Road, Milburn Street, Oldtown Street, Coagh Street, Union Street, and into Molesworth Street for dispersal by 5pm.

Limavady

Limavady will see town-wide disruptions, with limited access to centre car parks during parade times.

The main parade starts at 11am from Rathmore Road, following a circuitous route including Alexander Road, Scroggy Road, Church Street, Ballyclose Street, Main Street, Linenhall Street, Catherine Street, Roemill Road, William Street, Protestant Street, Irish Green Street, and Roemill Gardens to Roemill Road and the demonstration field.

At 3.30pm, it will reform from Roemill Road, proceeding via William Street, Protestant Street, Catherine Street, Linenhall Street, and Main Street to Ballyclose Street, where bands will disperse progressively, with remaining participants continuing over Roe Bridge, Lisnakilly Road, and Baranailt Road to Moneyrannel Road.

Castlederg

Castlederg’s parades begin at 9am, with advice for non-attendees to avoid the area entirely. Diversions will operate on Castlegore Road via Silverhill Road, and HGV drivers are encouraged to bypass the town to prevent congestion.

Police have emphasised the need for caution, noting that officers will be present at all locations to manage traffic flow and minimise delays.

“Motorists and members of the public should follow any direction and advice given by police,” a spokesperson said.

They added:

“Delays and disruption should be expected and those travelling, particularly those travelling to the airport, should seek an alternative route and allow additional time for travel. Appropriate signage will be in place.”

The authorities concluded with a positive note:

“We would like to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable day.”

With events spanning the day, residents and visitors are reminded to check local updates and heed signage to ensure smooth travel amid the celebrations.