Black Arch lights are 'necessary' for local walkers

The Roads Service had installed a number of low level lights along the road for a trial period, but decided to switch them off after concerns that motorists were being dazzled.

Roads Service principal engineer Terry Fulton attended the latest meeting of Larne council and told members that the lights had been a “disappointment”. He added: “We are now left with a choice of installing conventional lights or having no lights at all.”

However, Councillor Martin Wilson said that taking away the lights was not the answer and suggested that they could be sunk into the ground instead.

He claimed that lighting at the Black Arch was necessary for pedestrians and added that people “did not feel confident” walking along that part of the Coast Road at night.

Councillor Brian Dunn agreed that there was a need for lighting at the site and said he would prefer to see them on the other side of the road so that they do not “spoil the views” across the Irish Sea.

A DRD spokeswoman said the Roads Service was currently looking into alternative arrangements for the lights.