A major dual carriageway to bypass Ballymena, Co Antrim, is being delayed after the discovery of neolithic remains at the site.

Archaeologists have uncovered a rare late-neolithic ring fort, one of just four such forts found in Ireland.

Initial excavations took place over an eight-week period between June 2009 to September 2009, and a team of 20 archaeologists have recovered objects, including flint chippings, small blades and a leaf-shaped arrowhead.

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The site was not detected in the pre-construction Environmental Impact Assessment, and discovery has caused months of delay and added significant cost to the project.

A Department of Regional Development spokeswoman said: "The lengthy period of poor weather had halted excavation of the remainder of the cutting, and thus halted completion of the embankments being constructed elsewhere."

It is hoped the remainder of the road construction would be completed at a fast pace following completion of the cutting and construction of embankments.

Meanwhile, campaigners opposed to the Slane bypass in Co Meath said the discovery of the neolithic remains outside Ballymena highlighted the dangers of pressing ahead with the N2 Slane bypass.

(BMcC/GK)