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Western Belfast Bypass

Updated: 11 May 2012

The existing northern access to Christchurch passes through Belfast, a built-up residential area. Large volumes of local and through traffic create significant congestion at peak times, leading to delays for motorists and freight and reducing safety for all road users.

The proposed Western Belfast Bypass (WBB) provides a direct connection between the Christchurch Northern Motorway and Johns Road, thereby bypassing the Belfast urban area. This provides better access to and from the north of Christchurch connecting with Christchurch International Airport, and the south of the city, improving transport capacity and safety.

Looking east across Wells' Farm towards location of WBB Looking south towards Belfast with indicative alignment

The proposed Western Belfast Bypass (WBB) is a new four-lane, median separated road that will provide a limited access route from the Northern Motorway for approximately 5 km south to Johns Road (near The Groynes), bypassing the Belfast urban area.

The bypass will reduce traffic on Johns Road (between The Groynes and the Main North Road) and Main North Road, thereby reducing congestion and making travel times more predictable. By reducing traffic on these roads, the bypass will also make cycling and walking more attractive in Belfast and improve the reliability of public transport on Main North Road. Current walking and cycling tracks within The Groynes will also be maintained.

The WBB is an important link in the Christchurch Western Corridor and has been identified as part of the government's seven roads of national significance (RoNS) programme. The RoNS are critical for supporting economic growth, reducing congestion and improving safety in our region.

Read more information on the roads of national significance.

Christchurch Motorways links

Northern Corridor

Western Corridor

Southern Corridor