SDLP councillors support new fire station call in Glens

Catherine McCambridge said: ”We will be pushing the NIFRS Corporate Management team to approve a “Full Business Case” for a new community fire station in Cushendall, so that the required Capital Programme funding can be secured from the Department”

“Since 1989 Cushendall firefighters have provided invaluable 24 hour emergency cover for the local community from what was always meant to be a temporary structure. With an average call out rate of 130 calls per year, the firefighters have proven themselves to be a key emergency service for the Glens of Antrim. It is imperative that they are provided with the facilities they deserve.”

Despite indicating that Ballycastle were campaigning to see progress for their own Community Fire Station Councillor Dónal Cunningham assured the Glens meeting of the 100% support from the Ballycastle community.

He said: “Ballycastle has had a full business case approved for the construction of a new build at a capital cost of £2.62 million which would replace Ballycastle fire station.

“Outline planning permission has been approved for a new site; however we are yet to see any progress due to a lack of capital funding to take the project forward. That said we recognise the pressing need for a new station in Cushendall and are happy to throw our weight behind both campaigns”