Williams Proposes Rejection of Planning Application for Harbour Apartments

Mid & East Antrim Alliance Councillor, Alderman Noel Williams, a member of the Councils’ Planning Committee, summed up objections to the out-of-character residential complex that was to be sited on the footprint of the Swift Restaurant adjacent to Carrickfergus Harbour. Among other issues he argued that parking would be a substantial encroachment on the already busy Harbour Car Park. Moreover, the proposed blocks of apartments would be a detriment to the Carrickfergus Conservation Area.

Alderman Williams said: “I am pleased to say that common sense prevailed and the decision was not to approve. I know many Carrick residents will welcome this decision and I look forward to a more imaginative scheme, which hopefully will include a coffee shop/restaurant offering that will benefit residents and visitors alike in the future.”

Mr Williams concluded: “I formed my opinion having read the detail presented by planning officers, including the adverse opinion of the Council’s Conversation Officer, together with the DAERA Marine & Fisheries Division view that the site would lack the ability to mitigate climate change or protect against ‘coastal squeeze’. There were several objectors who presented their views to the committee, followed by the case put forward by the developer, which led, in my opinion, to the cons far outweighed the pros, which left me with little choice but to propose that the Planning Committee rejected the application.”