Causeway Coast and Glens Council approves plans for Dunluce Castle tourism facilities
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has approved plans for new tourism facilities at Dunluce Castle.
Members at February’s Planning Committee approved the reserved matters application, which will see the demolition of existing agricultural, storage and café, dining, and retail buildings and the erection of a visitor centre building incorporating tourism, recreational, educational, hot food, retail, conference and office uses on land adjacent to the castle at Dunluce Road, Bushmills.
In a report to committee members, Development Management and Enforcement manager, Shane Mathers, noted that prior to this application the plans were approved with outline permission in August 2015.
“The proposal requires its countryside location to be in proximity to the tourist attraction,” he said. “Accordingly the principle of development is acceptable.
“The proposal makes use of existing buildings and provides replacement buildings, which are in keeping with the character of the area and replicate the features of existing buildings.
“While open to critical views from Dunluce Road on this elevated site, the visual impact of the proposal is similar to the existing.”
A spokesperson for the applicant said the application represents a “significant and long-term investment” in Dunluce Castle, while “providing the interpretive educational and visitor facilities that a site of this importance deserves.”
They concluded: “The project will enhance the visitor experience, better manage access and parking, and strengthen Dunluce’s contribution to the borough’s tourism economy in a sustainable and carefully designed way.”
Members of Causeway Coast & Glens Council’s Planning Committee voted unanimously in favour of the application.