Filming for the second season of the Game of Thrones spin-off A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms will require a three-week daytime closure of a busy Co Down road this summer, local residents and commuters have been told.
Closure details and local access
The closure affects the B7 Ballynahinch Road near Crossgar, between Creevy Road and Listooder Road, and will operate from 9am to 7pm daily between 20 July and 14 August. The production company, Spring Rains Production Ltd, has written to residents outlining plans for a traffic diversion agreed with the Department for Infrastructure (DfI). The letter states that residents will retain access but that there may be potential delays, and that “access passes” will be issued to those requiring frequent movements through the closure.
“There will be a traffic diversion in place on the Ballynahinch Road with the permission of DfI...this will not affect residents who will have access, although there may be potential delays.”
The location for filming is Myra Castle on the shores of Strangford Lough. The production is part of the second season of the HBO-backed series, set decades before the events of the original Game of Thrones series.
Local reaction and concerns
Newry, Mourne and Down DUP councillor Callum Bowsie described the decision to close a main route as “unacceptable”, while also acknowledging the benefits of high-profile productions choosing Northern Ireland. His remarks reflect unease among some elected members and residents about the practical impact the closure will have on journeys, deliveries and local businesses during peak daytime hours.
“It is encouraging to see the huge fantasy franchise filming in Northern Ireland again, but the closure of the main B7 route... is unacceptable,”
Concerns centre on delays created by the diversion, the adequacy of alternative routes, and how emergency services, school transport and commuting patterns will be managed while the road is sealed to through traffic.
Practical information for residents and road users
- Closure window: 20 July–14 August, daily 9am–7pm.
- Location: B7 Ballynahinch Road between Creevy Road and Listooder Road.
- Access: residents to be issued access passes; some delays possible.
- Authority involvement: diversion agreed with Department for Infrastructure.
Drivers who normally use the B7 should plan alternative routes during the operational hours and allow extra time for journeys. Residents should look out for communication from Spring Rains Production Ltd or the council regarding collection points for access passes and any instructions about deliveries or essential visits.
Context — filming in Northern Ireland
The first season of the spin-off, shot across Northern Ireland and released earlier this year, has received industry recognition with nine Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Drama Series and Outstanding Cinematography. The new season continues the region’s role as a backdrop for major television productions, bringing economic opportunities as well as short-term disruption to local communities.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Road closed | B7 Ballynahinch Road (Creevy Rd to Listooder Rd) |
| Dates | 20 July–14 August |
| Daily hours | 9am–7pm |
| Filming location | Myra Castle, Strangford Lough |
Local authorities and the production company say disruption will be kept to a minimum, but residents and motorists affected by the closure are advised to monitor official channels for updates and further guidance on access arrangements.
