Views given on buildings

Ballymoney Borough Council had received the advance notice of listing for the former Police Station at 79 Charlotte Street and the Court House at 75 Charlotte Street back in March.

That has since passed over to the new council for their views.

At Wednesday’s Planning Committee meeting councillors backed the recommendation for the Court House to be listed. However, they felt they could not support the recommendation for the former Police Station due to its current state.

The building is classified as an important surviving group comprising a former jail and adjacent former court house and is of considerable social importance given the role it played in 19th century Ballymoney.

Alderman John Finlay though raised concern about the building’s current state of disrepair and the presence of asbestos in the building.

“The building is in a bad state of repair and there is asbestos there so for me I don’t think it should be listed,” said Alderman Finlay.

“I propose we inform the Northern Ireland Environment Agency we do not agree to the listing of this building.”

The proposal was seconded by Cllr Barney Fitzpatrick and backed by the other councillors.

BUSHMILLS GARDEN CENTRE CAR PARK

An application for improvements to access and car parking at a Bushmills garden centre have been approved by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

The application for Creative Gardens on the Ballyclough Road was brought before the Planning Committee last Wednesday.

Planning Officer Shane Mathers detailed the application which would see new safer access to the public roadway, extending the existing car park and increasing the size of the existing yard to allow for a turning circle for large articulated vehicles.

Mr Mathers revealed one letter of objection had been received raising concerns about traffic and road safety issues. However he said Transport Northern Ireland has no objection to the proposal subject to conditions.

Mr Mathers added the proposed development is considered acceptable in the location having regard to the draft Northern Area Plan and other material considerations.

He said the increase of parking and relocation of the access at the Garden Centre is appropriate and acceptable in terms of its layout and appearance.

Councillors voted unanimously in favour of the recommendation to approve the application.