Opposition is growing to the plans for a by-pass road around Ballynure in Co Antrim as part of the proposed A8 dualling project.

Those against the scheme have aired their concerns with local Green Party representatives, the Antrim Greens, at a meeting in late January.

Those objecting to the new road plan fear that it will harm established businesses within the village, take vital sections of land away from farmers and have a detrimental impact on the local environment.

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Land owners and residents have already voiced their concerns to Roads Service officials, claiming that the current level of traffic on the A8 doesn't justify the building of a new dual carriageway, particularly as there are already 'crawler lanes' in place either side of Ballynure.

A statement issued by the Antrim Greens after the meeting shared similar concerns to those being voiced by many people living in the Ballynure area.

"We believe the proposed road in unnecessary and if built will certainly have a terrible effect on the local environment.

"The road is to cost more than £110 million and will save only three minutes on the journey from Larne to Belfast," a spokesperson said.

Roads Service is planning to complete the upgrade of the main Larne - Belfast road by dualling the 14km section of the busy commuter route between Coleman's Corner near Ballyclare and Ballyrickard outside Larne.

(BMCC/GK)