Expansion plans for Hope House

Planning approval has been granted for the extension at the Brown's Bay premises.

Hope House, based at Brown’s Bay in Islandmagee, was founded in 2014 by local couple Dawn and Roy McConnell.

It gives those going through a cancer diagnosis the opportunity for a short break, free of charge, in self-catering accommodation.

Sharing the news on their Facebook page this week, a representative from Hope House wrote: “At Hope House, we have been on an exciting journey over the last few years. From 2013, where we started in a rented apartment that didn’t quite match our big dreams, to buying the dream house in a perfect location in 2018, we have been able to provide rest and recuperation for numerous cancer patients and their families.

Hope House provides respite for people living with cancer.

“Fast forward to autumn 2020 and just two years after opening our premises in Brown’s Bay, our waiting list of cancer patients in need of an urgent respite break is longer than ever before.

“We are delighted to announce that planning permission for Phase Two of our Brown’s Bay accommodation has been passed. This purpose-built, fully accessible property will increase our capacity to provide breaks for over 200 groups a year, allowing more and more families to create precious memories in the peaceful beach setting.”

The charity added: “We’d like to give a huge round of applause and our biggest thanks to architect Karl Wilkinson, WM Design and Build, who navigated us through the planning permission process and created the stunning plans.”

“At the moment, we don’t currently have the full funds to complete the build; however, we have no doubt that we will continue to receive the incredible support that has hugely contributed thus far to the creation of this safe haven for those navigating a cancer diagnosis.”

The venue has received high praise from past guests, with one reviewer commenting: “Hope House so lives up to its name; you leave filled with hope and optimism for the future.”