Storm Boelo causes extensive damage to iconic Pan's Rock

STORM Boelo has caused widespread disruption and chaos locally, creating even more extensive damage to the iconic Pans Rock Bridge in Ballycastle.

At the weekend, the storm saw gusts of wind reach up to 80mph in some areas and led to flights and ferries being cancelled.

A Met Office yellow warning for strong winds, mainly along the Antrim and Down coasts, lasts from 18:00 GMT on Monday until 03:00 Tuesday, with a second A second wind warning along the north coast of Antrim coming into place at 03:00 GMT on Tuesday until 21:00 GMT.

On Sunday, the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) said around 470 incidents had been reported to the department, including fallen trees and flooding.

Sinn Féin Councillor Cara McShane has expressed concern, adding: “The storm has caused considerable disruption locally, with fallen trees blocking roads as well as the Tow River path, significant damage to the stone sea wall along Carrickmore Road, damage done to the life rings and, in-particular, extensive damage to the iconic Pans Rock Bridge.

“The bridge is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks, so it is particularly disappointing to see the bridge in its current condition.

“A report is due to come before Council next month outlining the various options for the future of the bridge. However, I have previously raised concerns about its deteriorating condition and the lack of remedial works following earlier storm damage in 2025.

“Unfortunately, given the extent of the damage, we are now potentially facing a very substantial financial commitment to repair the bridge or, more likely, replace it entirely.

“I will be seeking clarity on the options available, the likely costs involved and how we can secure the long-term future of this important local landmark on our seascape.

“In the meantime, I would urge everyone to take extra care, avoid damaged coastal infrastructure and be mindful of fallen trees and debris on local roads.

“I also want to acknowledge the efforts of the Department for Infrastructure, Council staff, and other agencies working to address the aftermath of the storm and keep people safe.”

A Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council spokesperson said: “Council is aware of the reported damage to the Bridge at Pan's Rock and will be carrying out an inspection to assess the extent of the damage and determine the appropriate course of action. Council’s Coast and Countryside Team will replace the life rings.”

Earlier in the week, Ann Street in Ballycastle was flooded after a gully between the Quay Road hall and the Masonic Hall overflowed.

Tracey McAllister, who owns Home Made Beautiful on Ann Street, said she has flooding every time there is heavy rain, but this week, the rain actually flooded into the lower floor of her shop premises.

She told the Chronicle: “There are two drains either side of Ann Street, one at the bottom of the laneway and one just outside my shop.

“When there's heavy rain the drains get filled with stones and the wat can't get away quick enough. It happens every time there is heavy rain, but this was the first time it has actually came into the shop.”

Tracey said she and a member of staff spent most of Wednesday tipping buckets of water out from the shop, adding that when she contacted DFI, they weren't very helpful.

She did, however, praise the local Council who helped steer her towards sandbags, and local people who offered to help.

The Chronicle contacted DFI but at the time of going to press, no response had been received.

AONTÚ Councillor Margaret Anne Mc Killop said thanks to the storm, local people are counting the cost of damage at their properties, and she's appealing to everyone to keep themselves safely indoors.

She said: “There were multiple trees down thanks to this storm, as well as damage to homes and property and many households across the wider area were left without electricity as the storm raged.

“It is deeply disheartening to see the damage along our coastline; with walls demolished and another section of Pan's Rock damaged and left floating in the water, as well as the newly completed walkway at Waterfoot once again riddled with holes.

“This is only a few examples but it is devastating to see such damage to our local area.

“With further weather warnings in place, I would urge everyone to take care, remain vigilant and check in on elderly relatives, neighbours and anyone who may need assistance.

“It is vital that everyone takes every precaution possible during this period of severe weather. Please ensure that all loose items are securely fastened, particularly trampolines”