Traffic easing proposal for Larne’s Linn Road ‘a welcome step’

The junction of Linn Road and Antiville Road.

A new left hand turning lane at Linn Road in Larne’s Antiville estate is to be given consideration by the Department for Infrastructure next year.

East Antrim DUP MLA Gordon Lyons has reported that DfI Road officials agreed to get a design and estimate for a left hand turning lane at a recent meeting.

“It has now been confirmed that an estimate will be received by January 2021 for consideration in next year’s list of projects,” said Mr Lyons.

“I have been campaigning to see traffic easing measures installed at the junction between the Linn Road and the Antiville Road for some time.

“Though not the perfect solution, this would at least allow Larne-bound traffic to flow more freely at the junction.

“This is a welcome step but I know the traffic issues go much wider than just the Linn Road and work is needed to develop the Larne West Link Road, to take pressure off Donaghy’s Lane.”

Mr Lyons has indicated that he has also written to the minister asking for a “wider traffic management plan” to be developed.

The MLA said previously: “Traffic congestion on Donaghy’s Lane and the Linn Road has been a long-standing frustration for local people trying to go about their daily business. As the number of homes in the Larne West area continues to grow, this problem has only gotten worse.

“Developing the small stretch of road which connects Millbrook to the Ballyhampton Road is one option which the Department must explore to help ease the congestion.”

Party colleagues have brought a motion to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council seeking support for the Department to intervene to resolve this issue and take steps to improve traffic flow in the wider area. Read more about Larne West road upgrade campaign here