Ballymena parade: Police issue traffic and travel advice

Police will implement temporary traffic diversions throughout the town to facilitate the parade when it begins at 10am at the Harmony Hub. Officers will be on the ground to accommodate the flow of traffic, but it is expected that participants will disperse before 11am.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “To avoid potential delays, please seek an alternative route for your journey where possible.”

It is understood the demonstration was organised in relation to Thursday’s widespread strike action, which will see thousands of public sector workers protest in relation to fair pay, safe staffing and proper funding for public services.

Trade unions such as NIPSA and the Ulster Teachers’ Union were expected to be present at the Ballymena event.

As the demonstration was a “static rally”, there was no need to notify the Parades’ Commission, police added.