Robin Swann warns airport roads are “completely unacceptable”

South Antrim MP Robin Swann 

South Antrim MP Robin Swann has called on the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) to make urgent investment in the deteriorating road network surrounding Belfast International Airport and the M2 motorway, warning that the current condition poses safety risks and damages vehicles on one of Northern Ireland’s most important transport corridors.

Highlighting the scale of the problem, Mr Swann said the state of the roads serving the airport and M2 was “completely unacceptable” and emblematic of what he described as a growing “pothole pandemic”.

“The state of our roads around the International Airport and the M2 are completely unacceptable. It truly represents the ‘pothole pandemic’ and is causing real damage to vehicles and risking the safety of road users,” he said.

“This is one of the most important transport corridors in Northern Ireland, yet it is being allowed to fall into a state of awful disrepair.”

First impressions for visitors and residents

Mr Swann also emphasised the wider impact on visitors and the region’s reputation, noting that the road network around Belfast International Airport often provides the first impression of Northern Ireland for those arriving in the country.

“For many visitors, this road network provides their first impression of our country. At a time when the Airport is investing £100 million in its own facilities, the Department for Infrastructure is failing to maintain the roads that lead to its front door.”

The comments come amid increasing frustration among local residents and airport stakeholders, with Mr Swann confirming that he has held a series of engagements with senior management at Belfast International Airport and residents living near the affected routes.

Calls for long-term investment, not temporary fixes

While acknowledging a recent announcement by the Infrastructure Minister of a Winter Recovery Road Fund, Mr Swann argued that short-term measures and temporary repairs are no longer adequate given the strategic importance of the routes.

He said so-called “patchwork repairs” are failing to address the underlying problems with the road network.

“I have raised this issue repeatedly with the Department, but the response remains inadequate. We need better than more loose grit and temporary fills – a long-term investment strategy that reflects the strategic importance of South Antrim’s infrastructure is needed.”

Mr Swann said sustained investment is required to ensure the safety of road users, protect vehicles from damage and support the continued growth of Belfast International Airport as a key gateway to Northern Ireland.