Sinn Féin welcome alternative regeneration project proposal
The development follows a recent meeting with Communities Minister Gordon Lyons
NORTH Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Philip McGuigan and Councillor Cara McShane have welcomed proposals to explore the extension of Ballycastle's Tow River Path as an alternative regeneration project for potential funding through the Department for Communities.
The development follows a recent meeting with Communities Minister Gordon Lyons to discuss the future of the Ballycastle Diamond Environmental Improvement Scheme, which has been unable to progress due to the ongoing issues surrounding the former Antrim Arms Hotel site.
Sinn Féin Councillor, Cara McShane, said: “Following our meeting with the Communities Minister, I welcome the Council’s report recommending that the Tow River Path extension be put forward for potential funding, given the ongoing delays with the Diamond regeneration scheme.
“The extension of the Tow River Path has been a longstanding ambition for Ballycastle, with considerable work already undertaken, including ongoing efforts to secure the necessary land.
“This presents a real opportunity to improve connections between the town centre, seafront and Ballycastle Forest, supporting local businesses, tourism and outdoor recreation.
“While the ongoing issues surrounding the Antrim Arms site are preventing progress on the Diamond scheme, we must ensure that wider regeneration and investment in Ballycastle does not stand still.
“The next step is for Councillors to consider the report and, if approved, for the proposal to be submitted to the Department for Communities for further consideration.”
Philip McGuigan MLA added: “At our recent meeting with Minister Lyons, we stressed the importance of ensuring that Ballycastle did not lose out on opportunities for regeneration investment because of circumstances surrounding the Antrim Arms.
“We welcome the Minister's willingness to consider alternative proposals and the identification of the Tow River Path extension as a potential project.
“This scheme has the potential to deliver lasting economic, environmental and community benefits, supporting tourism, active travel and greater footfall for businesses across Ballycastle.
“We will continue to engage with the Department for Communities and Council to help progress the proposal and explore the funding opportunities available.”
Councillor Cara McShane concluded: “The Diamond remains a key regeneration priority, and the work already undertaken on that scheme must be protected so it can be revisited when circumstances allow.
“In the meantime, we have an opportunity to advance another longstanding priority for Ballycastle and ensure that the town continues to benefit from meaningful regeneration investment.”
l The report can be viewed on the Council website.