'Affodable' housing being considered for former quarry site in Glenarm

Minutes of a meeting of Glenarm Regeneration Sub-Committee indicated the possibility of the development of a residential development at the Coast Road location has been raised with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s planning department.

Consideration is being given to tendering for a consultant design team regarding residential design for the conservation area location. The minutes were presented to a meeting of the council’s Environment and Economy Committee on Monday evening.

Speaking at the meeting, Coast Road Ulster Unionist Alderman Maureen Morrow said members of Glenarm Regeneration Sub-Committee are opposed to losing heritage green signs from the village.

Ald Morrow indicated villagers do not want new coastal route signs, preferring to retain the existing signage.

“The signage that is around the village gives history and directions. They have great concerns that a wee quiet coastal town will be turned into an industrial- looking area.”

A council officer replied: “We are intending to go back to the sub-committee.”

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The minutes noted: “Design options need to be shared with the sub-committee members.” The minutes also noted a “very successful opening event” for the refurbished Eglinton Barn, a council-owned building.

Renovation work consisted of replacing the roof, undertaking essential conservation works to the walls and yard, demolition of the former office block, levelling of the yard surface and installation of lighting.

In April, phase two, a proposed ‘pod’ style community hub and open-sided canopies at Eglinton Yard and barn, was approved by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Planning Committee.

Eglinton Yard is located on a corner site at the junction of The Cloney, Toberwine Street and New Street. New entrances will be created using existing and previously “bricked up” openings in the perimeter walls. Replacement surfacing, railings and “heritage style” lighting at the riverside path are planned.

The 1.26 acre Eglinton Yard site was on the market in 2018. Plans for a seafront hotel and distillery failed to progress.

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter