Carnfunnock Family Fun Zone to Close After 22 Years Following Council Decision

In a surprising and emotional development, the owners of Carnfunnock Family Fun Zone have announced that their lease has been terminated by Mid & East Antrim Council, forcing the long-standing attraction to vacate the park after 22 years in operation. The family-run business, helmed by Christopher Lough and his father, Ian Lough, received the news during a meeting on Thursday, September 19th, where they were handed a letter stating they have six months to leave the premises.

The Lough family, who have invested nearly half a million pounds of their own money into the Fun Zone over the years, were reportedly devastated by the decision. The Fun Zone has been a beloved part of the Carnfunnock Country Park for over two decades, offering mini-golf, a miniature railway, and other family-friendly activities. For many locals and visitors, it has become a cherished fixture of the park.

In a statement, Christopher and Ian Lough expressed their shock at the council’s decision, describing it as “a massive shock” and “very hard” to process. The council cited concerns over health and safety risks as the reason for the eviction, as construction work is planned for another part of Carnfunnock Country Park. However, the Loughs questioned why they were being forced to vacate the park entirely, especially considering that the construction work has yet to begin and planning approval is still pending.

“The current timescale for the work is 18 months, but as of now, planning is still not approved. They hope to have it finished by June 2026, but with the setbacks they’ve already faced, we don’t see this being realistic,” said Christopher Lough. The family also pointed out the impracticality of moving their large-scale attractions, such as the 18-hole mini-golf course and miniature railway, to other locations offered by the council.

Though the future remains uncertain, the owners have not ruled out a potential return to Carnfunnock after the construction work is completed, though no guarantees have been made by the council. “If the day comes that we are allowed to operate Carnfunnock Family Fun Zone back in the park, we hope to welcome you back,” the family said in their statement, but for now, they remain in limbo.

The Fun Zone will continue to operate on weekends, weather permitting, until the closure, with opening hours from 12 PM to 4 PM. The Lough family has thanked their loyal customers, business partners, friends, and family for their support over the years, reflecting on the many memories created during their 22-year run.

The decision to close the Family Fun Zone has sparked sadness and frustration among many locals who have enjoyed the attraction for years. With the council’s plans still in flux and uncertainty surrounding the park’s future, the community is left wondering if Carnfunnock Family Fun Zone will ever return.