The much-anticipated plans for the regeneration of Glenarm have been developed with the local community, the Department of Environment's (DOE) Planning Service and Larne Borough Council. Today’s unveiling marks the conclusion of consultation work carried out by the Prince’s Foundation for the Built Environment.
The village residents have been working alongside the Foundation's "Enquiry by Design" team. In February, the Foundation organised a series of workshops for the residents and businesses to express their aspirations for the future of the village.
Speaking ahead of receiving the Glenarm Regeneration Strategy, Environment Minister Edwin Poots said: "The Enquiry by Design process is an innovative planning tool which draws upon local knowledge and technical expertise in developing a sustainable regeneration plan.
"It reflects the positive effects of engagement and transparency in the planning process and will be invaluable in providing an example of how planning may be done in the future.
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"The implementation of the Strategy will require the co-ordination of all parties involved. Planning Service will provide professional resources to help drive forward the project."
The Glenarm Regeneration Strategy has been led by Larne Borough Council, which secured £25k in funding from the DOE.
The Prince's Foundation provided expert urban design and architectural advice and worked alongside planners, archaeologists, transport specialists, and tourist officers as part of their public consultation process. The results will be on show on Wednesday at the old limestone facility at Eglinton Courtyard adjacent to the village's Marina.
Chief Executive of Larne Borough Council, Geraldine McGahey said: "The Prince’s Foundation involvement in the development is a first in Northern Ireland and we are delighted with the progress. It demonstrates the importance of community driven planning which promises to deliver economic regeneration and a vibrant and sustainable future for Glenarm Village."
Among the recommendations set out in the new plans is the provision for a land swap, which will see the Council secure prime land for public use and a scheme to develop Eglinton courtyard in the village.
Hank Dittmar, Chief Executive of The Prince's Foundation said: "We are delighted to be involved in helping the community understand the issues that lie behind the creation of a vibrant and thriving village. We hope that the resulting plans will lead to the creation of a place which will benefit many people well into the future."
Stephen Montgomery, Chairman of Glenarm Village Committee said: "We are looking forward to the exciting developments in the future and are proud of these plans. I want to pay tribute to the team from the Prince's Foundation who worked will us. It is an historic moment not only for Glenarm but for planning in Northern Ireland."
(NS/BMcC)
