Sinn Féin MLA Declan Kearney has welcomed the start of site works on an active travel project in Antrim that will create a shared footway and cycleway along Stiles Way, linking the Junction One roundabout with the Springfarm Footbridge.

Speaking as works began, the South Antrim MLA said: "I am delighted to see that work is now underway to install an active travel scheme on Stiles Way, in Antrim Town.

"This major investment of £550,000 announced by my Party colleague and Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins is the result of extensive representations which set out to address pedestrian and cyclist access onto Stiles Way from the Springfarm Footbridge, and neighbouring communities.

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"As part of those representations, I hosted a site visit by the Minister and senior Department officials, at which time discussions extended to developing an active travel scheme to include a shared pedestrian footway/cycleway which would open up safe access from the footbridge through to Junction One and the town centre.

"The project will extend approximately 480 metres along Stiles Way, beginning at the Ballymena Road/Stiles Way roundabout, passing beneath the railway bridge and connecting via a ramp to the Springfarm Footbridge.

"As part of the works, a new toucan crossing will be installed on Stiles Way and the route will connect to a second toucan crossing located on the Ballymena Road, creating a continuous and safe link for pedestrians and cyclists travelling through the area.

"Programmed works and traffic management will be in place on Stiles Way from 10 August 2026 for a period of 18 weeks and, while road users should expect some delays, arrangements will be in place to minimise inconvenience.

"I warmly welcome this exciting new infrastructure project. I look forward to its completion and the significant benefits it will bring for all road users."