Council seeking views on proposals to invest in the regeneration of Larne

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is encouraging local businesses and the wider public to feed in their views on the proposed pedestrianisation of Dunluce Street and Lower Cross Street in Larne.

Council is currently developing an application for funding from the Department for Communities (DfC) to invest in the Public Realm in this area.

Mayor Councillor, William McCaughey said: “As part of the overall regeneration scheme we are proposing to pedestrianise both Dunluce Street and Lower Cross Street, and to extend the public footway on Bridge Street by removing the two on-street parking bays.

“We envisage that by pedestrianising the two streets it will create a vibrant and attractive space with the opportunity to develop a café culture and a plaza type area to host small events that will increase footfall in Larne town centre.”

Cllr McKeen, Chair of Councils Borough Growth Committee, said: “A few years ago public realm improvement works were completed in Larne with significant investment put into new streetscape, furniture and lighting, however this work did not extend to Dunluce Street and Lower Cross Street.

“It is hoped that the regeneration works will act as a catalyst for further private and public sector investment in Larne, and with the development of a new hotel planned for this area in the near future now is an opportune time to focus on upgrading Dunluce Street and Lower Cross Street to further enhance the area as a whole.”

In order to assist in the preparation of the funding bid and associated planning application Council are actively seeking the views of businesses located in the area and also from the wider public.

Cllr McCaughey said: “We want to hear from you on your perceptions of this area and your opinion on the proposed pedestrianisation of Dunluce Street and Lower Cross Street.

“An online survey has been created and I would encourage as many of you as possible to complete it before the 20 September deadline.”

The online survey and proposal plans may be inspected by visiting: https://www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/larne-streets