Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced a £556,000 carriageway improvement scheme on the A23 Ballygowan Road in Belfast, set to begin on 15 August 2026.

The project will resurface the stretch from Upper Braniel Road to 122 Ballygowan Road and upgrade kerbs and footways, aiming to improve road safety and quality for residents, businesses and commuters.

Minister Kimmins said: "This is a substantial investment which will deliver significant benefits for residents and road users and demonstrates my commitment to improving our roads, 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 reduce disruption at peak times, the works will take place over a series of weekends and off-peak weekday closures between 15 August and 18 September 2026. Each weekend, the road will be closed from 7am on Saturday until 7pm on Sunday. On weekdays, closures will operate daily from 9.30am to 4.30pm. A signed diversion will be in place via A55 Upper Knockbreda Road, A24 Saintfield Road, A7 Saintfield Road, B178 Comber Road and A23 Moneyreagh Road. Anyone travelling to Roselawn Cemetery is advised to allow extra time and use the signed diversion.

The Department has scheduled the works and traffic management to minimise inconvenience, but some delays are expected. Local access will be accommodated where possible, and road users are asked to follow all temporary traffic restrictions. Subject to favourable weather, the scheme will be substantially complete by 18 September 2026, with any changes to be communicated to the public.

For further information on this and other schemes, visit www.TrafficwatchNI.com.