Call For Action On "Embarrassing" Coleraine Road As Councillor Tables Motion

Causeway Coast & Glens Councillor John Wisener has formally tabled a motion seeking urgent repairs to a much-criticised road leading to one of Coleraine’s most popular commercial hubs. Councillor Richard Holmes seconded the motion.

The stretch, variably known as Somerset Road South and Riverside Park South, serves as the principal access route to the Riverside development, home to the borough’s largest entertainment complex and retail outlet centre. Yet despite its importance, locals and businesses have long described the road as "an embarrassment".

“When I canvassed for election two years ago, residents overwhelmingly asked, ‘What will you do about that road at the Jet Centre?’” said Cllr Wisener. “I promised to act, and I have now placed a motion before council.”

The proposal calls on the council to convene a meeting of key stakeholders—including businesses and the Department for Infrastructure (DfI)—to devise a plan for repairing the road and securing its adoption by DfI.

The councillor also questioned whether the original developers had entered into a bond agreement to cover future maintenance and handover, a common practice in both residential and commercial developments. “If no such bond exists, we need clarity on who holds ultimate responsibility for maintaining the road,” he said. “Was there a lapse in enforcing planning legislation?”

DfI has reportedly indicated a willingness to adopt the road—but only if it meets regulatory standards. The motion seeks written confirmation of this stance and proposes exploring funding avenues for the necessary upgrades.

Cllr Wisener warned of the reputational risks posed by the neglected access route, especially as the borough anticipates a surge in tourist numbers this summer.

“This council has been proactive in promoting tourism across towns and villages, yet Coleraine remains conspicuously absent from many visitors’ itineraries,” he said. “The state of this road sends entirely the wrong message about our town.”

In addition to the road motion, Cllr Wisener highlighted other minor infrastructure issues—described as the “Coleraine anomalies”—which, if addressed, could enhance the town’s appearance and accessibility. These include improvements to the Railway Road entrance from the car park, the Millburn Estate archway, and Ramparts Lane.

“It wouldn’t take much to fix these, but the difference for our town would be substantial,” he concluded.

The motion reads : it is proposed that Council convene a meeting of interested parties (businesses and DfI) to develop a plan to repair Somerset Road South, Coleraine, and have it adopted by DfI.

The council is expected to debate the motion at its next committee meeting.