Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced two significant road improvement schemes aimed at enhancing safety and infrastructure across the North Down and Belfast areas, representing a combined investment of £473,000.

Craigantlet Road Safety Improvements

A £50,000 project is set to deliver road safety enhancements at the Ballymiscaw Road and Whinney Hill junction at Craigantlet. The scheme focuses on simplifying the busy rural junction to reduce conflict points and lower turning speeds. Key works include the removal of the existing left-turn slip lane from Whinney Hill onto Ballymiscaw Road.

Minister Kimmins stated: "This £50,000 investment for North Down will provide safer traffic progression for everyone using Craigantlet crossroads, which connects key routes toward Dundonald, Belfast, Holywood, Bangor and Newtownards. Improving road safety remains my priority, and this scheme demonstrates my commitment to creating a safer and more reliable road network for our communities and businesses. I want to thank residents and commuters for their patience as this important work is carried out."

Construction is scheduled to run from Monday 2 March to Friday 6 March 2026. During this period, three-way traffic lights will be in operation at the junction, including during peak hours. Beechill Road Resurfacing Scheme

In a larger investment, a £423,000 resurfacing project began today, Monday 23 February, on Beechill Road in Belfast. The scheme covers a 1.06 km stretch extending from the Purdysburn Road junction to Newtownbreda Road.

Commenting on the Belfast project, Minister Kimmins said: "This is a substantial investment for the Lisburn and Castlereagh area which will deliver significant benefits for residents and road users and demonstrates my commitment to improving our road network, which is vital for connecting our businesses and communities. I would like to thank residents, local businesses and commuters for their patience while this essential infrastructure work is carried out."

To facilitate the work, the Department will implement the following traffic management:

• 23 February – 8 March: Localised lane closures.

• 9 March – 1 May: Full road closures on weekdays (Monday to Friday) between 8am and 6pm.

A signed diversion will be in place via Purdysburn Road, Saintfield Road, the A55 Newtownbreda Road, and Belvoir Road. While local access will be maintained where possible, motorists are advised to expect delays and allow extra travel time. Both schemes are subject to favourable weather conditions, with the Beechill Road works expected to be complete by 1 May 2026.