I'm told that plans are afoot which could dramatically alter the visual impact of the Diamond in Ballycastle town centre, especially for folks coming down Castle Street.
Holy Trinity Church at the Diamond has been attacked several times recently by 'anti-social elements' but now the threat is coming from a different quarter.
In theory, the town centre will be protected from inappropriate development by certain features of the proposed Northern Area Plan 2016. However, I'm not sure about the current status of this plan or the effectiveness of the Planning Service in implementing it.
Designation BEL 14 O’Connor Memorial LLPA
A Local Landscape Policy Area is designated as identified on Map No. 5/01 a – Ballycastle and Map No. 5/01 b – Ballycastle Town Centre
Those features or combination of features that contribute to the environmental quality, integrity or character of this area are listed below.
1. The tree framed Listed Building of Holy Trinity Church, set behind The Diamond, provides a high quality visual focus in the heart of the town.
Any alterations to this centrepiece of the Conservation Area will be required to be particularly sensitive to its visual quality.
The architectural sketch shows that the listed building is also to be 'framed' by extensions and by a new zinc clad church hall. The latter lurking behind on the right reminded someone of an aircraft hangar!!
If you wish to support the conservation of Ballycastle's vanishing heritage you can send your letter of objections to Application No 2009/0180F to District Planning Office, County Hall, Castlerock Road, Coleraine. BT51 3HS and seek the support of your MP, MLAs and District Councillors.
