Transportation and Infrastructure - Strategic Position and Connectivity

Antrim and Newtownabbey occupies an important strategic position on the Northern Ireland transportation network. The M2, M5, M22, A8 (M) and associated trunk road network provide fast and convenient access to the ports of Belfast and Larne, Belfast International Airport (BIA) and connect us with the Eastern Seaboard, Northern and North Western Key Transport Corridors. We benefit from rail links running through the Borough providing connections between Belfast and Derry/Londonderry and Larne. The Borough is home to BIA which is a critical regional strategic gateway to Northern Ireland and plays an important role in the economy of the region. The connectivity of our Borough has been enhanced by the recent completion of several new transportation schemes including the Park and Ride facility at Ballymartin Templepatrick, the introduction of hard shoulder bus lanes along the M2, the Toome bypass and the A8 dual carriageway scheme from Coleman's Corner to Larne. In addition, the completion of the A6 Randalstown to Castledawson dualling scheme, will significantly relieve congestion and improve connectivity along this key part of the North Western Transport Corridor linking Belfast to Derry/Londonderry.