The Department of Infrastructure (DfI) has confirmed that resurfacing works will commence within the next few weeks on the Larne Road Link in Ballymena.
Drivers have been complaining recently over the condition of the busy road which has been damaged with works taking place as part of the regeneration at the site of the former St Patrick's Barracks in the town.
The road has been reconfigured with a new junction where the newly constructed spine road will connect from the Broughshane Road roundabout to the Larne Road Link running alongside KFC and IMC Cinema.
The reconfigured junction will be controlled by traffic lights when fully operational, and will provide access to the new road as well as a new 24hr Go fuel station, currently under construction at the corner of the site, opposite Sainsbury's.
The new £6million road will open up access to new social housing scheme, as well as the new NRC campus currently under construction, and the new leisure centre planned for Ballymena.
A DfI spokesperson told Love Ballymena:
“As part of the ongoing St Patrick’s Regeneration in Ballymena, work is continuing on the construction of a new link road between A42 Broughshane Road and A26 Larne Road Link.
"The next stage of the scheme involves resurfacing a stretch of Larne Road Link between Braidwater Roundabout and Ballykeel Roundabout, where a traffic signal junction is being formed.
"To facilitate the safe delivery of these works it will be necessary to implement overnight road closures for a period of one week between 7pm and 6am, starting Monday 17th April. On Sunday 23rd April the road will be closed until noon to allow the final surfacing works to be completed. During these times there will be a signed diversionary route via Larne Road, Gilmore Street, Queen Street, Henry Street and Bridge Street.
"Local access for residents and emergency services will be maintained at all times, however some minor delays may be experienced. The Department has programmed the work operations and traffic management arrangements to minimise inconvenience, however, road users are advised to allow additional time when travelling in the vicinity of the works and are asked to comply with all temporary traffic restrictions.
"Subject to favourable weather conditions all work will be completed by 23rd April 2023, however, the Department will keep the public informed of any change.”