Councillors have backed proposals to move forward with the disposal of council-owned assets at 25 and 26 Bayview Road in Ballycastle, as part of ongoing discussions around the future use of the prominent marina-side site.
The premises, located close to Ballycastle Marina, were previously used as a café, amusement premises and retail outlet.
The details emerged in minutes published following a meeting of the Land & Property and Strategic Assets Subcommittee.
According to the minutes, the confidential report, presented by the Strategic Assets Manager, outlined an updated Land and Property Services valuation alongside options for the future of the properties and adjoining land.
The purpose of the report was to allow the Subcommittee to review due diligence information and make an informed recommendation to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Corporate Policy and Resources Committee.
Members agreed to support “Option 2”, which recommends that the council proceed with the disposal of the assets and additional land through the D1 disposal process and on the open market.
The recommendation also includes conducting an equality assessment to ensure that disabled parking spaces are reassigned within the Marina Car Park.
During the meeting, the Strategic Assets Manager presented images of the site's current condition and outlined potential redevelopment opportunities.
Councillor Cara McShane welcomed the report and referred to the ongoing cost of retaining the buildings, describing the site as having been in a state of dereliction for some time.
At Councillor McShane’s request, the Strategic Assets Manager confirmed that it would be possible to pursue a mixed-purpose design brief alongside wider regeneration plans for Ballycastle.
Members also discussed the potential for retail and hospitality uses at the location, with Councillor Darryl Wilson referring to the financial implications of retaining the asset.
The Acting Senior Solicitor told members that potential caveats could be attached to optimise the asset while allowing officers a degree of discretion. Councillor McShane said that approach “made sense”.
The proposal was put forward by Councillor McShane and seconded by Councillor Dermot Nicholl before being agreed by the Subcommittee.
The matter will now progress to the Corporate Policy and Resources Committee for further consideration.
