Newtownabbey: Barriers and ticket machines approved for Mossley Mill to deter all-day parking by rail commuters
A proposal to install access control barriers and two ticketing machines at Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s headquarters was approved by its Planning Committee.
Councillors agreed to the planned introduction of a new car parking system at Mossley Mill, a grade B2 listed building in Newtownabbey.
Planning officer Ashleigh Wilson said the proposal was considered to be “ancillary use of the site and acceptable in principle”.
She said Department for Infrastructure Roads requested additional information but it was “not considered necessary” given the separation distance between the barriers and the entrance is considered acceptable.
The officer went on to say there were no concerns about the impact on a listed building, there were no third party objections and the recommendation was to grant permission.
A committee report said: “Overall, the appearance of the proposal will not appear out of character within the grounds of a civic building and the scale, design and appearance of the proposal is sympathetic with the character of this area.
“In addition, Historic Environment Division (HED) were consulted on the proposal and note that the access barriers and ticket machine are sited away from the listed building and also note that they are reversible should that be required at a later date."
Threemilewater Ulster Unionist Councillor Stephen Cosgrove highlighted the need for access by a fishing club. A director said there will be a “range of operational matters to work our way through”.
Macedon Ulster Unionist Cllr Robert Foster asked about queuing distance from the proposed barriers to the Carnmoney Road North.
He was told positioning would enable a queuing distance of 35 metres which was considered to be “a substantial distance”.
The recommendation to approve the application was passed unanimously following a vote.
A design and access statement submitted with the application said the car park at Mossley Mill is being used by rail commuters, who use the nearby train station, “leaving their car before 8am and returning after 5pm rather than using the railway car park”.
It added this is “depriving staff members and other users the ability to park at the mill”.
The report indicated council “is committed to reducing the need for two dedicated civic administration buildings” and “these spaces will be required to accommodate relocated staff and members of the public”.
Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter