Kerr Street Steps to Reopen Next Month After Months-Long Closure

The long-awaited reopening of the Kerr Street Steps is now in sight, after the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) confirmed the long-delayed project should finally conclude in early to mid-December 2025.

The steps, a key pedestrian link between Portrush’s town centre and the harbour area, have been shut for the entire summer season, including during the bustling week of The Open. Their closure has drawn significant frustration from residents, businesses and visitors, many of whom rely on the route during the town’s busiest months.

A DfI spokesperson said protective screens had now been installed to allow work to progress.
“The Department’s external contractor has erected protective screens in order to keep the steps dry so that the curing of the concrete and anti-slip can be applied,” the spokesperson said. “The contractor has advised that the steps should be opened in early / mid December 2025.”

The issue was raised at a council meeting last month, where officials acknowledged growing public anger. Responding to criticism, Divisional Roads Manager Alan Keys conceded the department had faced “difficulties right from the start” with the contractor responsible for the repair programme.

“The contractor, quite bluntly, just isn’t performing,” Mr Keys told councillors. “We’re pushing hard to get them to complete the job so we can move on. Our hands are tied to some extent, as it’s the contractor we have to use, but we’re being honest about the situation.”