Ballyclare

Ballyclare (historically Bellaclare; from Irish: Bealach Cláir meaning "pass of the plain") is a small town in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. It had a population of 8,770 people in the 2001 Census. Under the reorganisation of Northern Ireland local government in 1973, Ballyclare lost its urban district status and became part of Newtownabbey Borough.

It sits on the river Six Mile Water with Craig Hill providing a wooded backdrop to the east. Its medieval origins can still be seen in Ballyclare Motte, which is to the south of the town. The broad main street dates from the 18th century. A clock tower is a central focus within the town and the old mill marks the industrial district on the south east developed along the Six Mile Water. It is a local service centre with a significant dormitory role in relation to Belfast. It is the main focus within the rural area for housing, shopping and commerce, industry and employment, education and recreation.