Planning application lodged for Larne’s Jubilee Crown

Temporary planning permission for the eight-metre high structure, which sits in the middle of the Circular Road roundabout, is due to expire on December 1,

The structure will be subject to a council Equality Impact Assessment, which will be carried out by a cross-party Equality Working Group.

The Equality Working Group has no decision-making powers, but will send its recommendations to the Policy & Resources Committee of MEA.

DUP Alderman Gregg McKeen, who sits on the Equality Working Group, said council had taken the decision to lodge the application before hearing the equality working group’s recommendations as the temporary permission will soon lapse.

“It ensures that if the temporary planning permission expires before there is a decision from the Equality Working Group we’re not faced with it being there illegally,” said ald McKeen.

“I think it’s recognisable, positive for the town and it should stay.

“Even if planning permission is granted it will still be up to council whether to retain it there.”