Planning Applications Submitted for £42.2m Carrickfergus Regeneration Project

Planning applications have been submitted for the £42.2 million Carrickfergus Regeneration Project.

The proposals include a new visitor centre, major improvements to public spaces, upgraded cultural facilities and better access to Carrickfergus Castle.

The project is supported by £26.4 million from the Belfast Region City Deal and aims to increase tourism, support local businesses and improve the town for residents and visitors.

Planning applications have now been submitted for the £42.2 million Carrickfergus Regeneration Project, marking a major milestone for the historic County Antrim town.

The ambitious regeneration programme aims to transform Carrickfergus into a stronger visitor destination. It will also improve public spaces, accessibility and connections between the castle, harbour, waterfront and town centre.

The project is supported by £26.4 million from the Belfast Region City Deal.

What Is Included in the Carrickfergus Regeneration Project?

The proposed investment includes:

• A new visitor centre overlooking Carrickfergus Castle and Belfast Lough
• Improved waterfront areas and public spaces
• New and enhanced heritage trails
• Upgraded arts, cultural and community facilities
• Improved accessibility and visitor facilities
• Better access to Carrickfergus Castle
• Stronger links between the castle, harbour, waterfront and town centre

The project aims to celebrate Carrickfergus’ history while creating modern facilities for residents and visitors.

New Carrickfergus Visitor Centre

A major part of the Carrickfergus Regeneration Project is the development of a new visitor centre overlooking Carrickfergus Castle and Belfast Lough.

The visitor centre is expected to provide modern tourism, interpretation and visitor facilities.

It would also encourage more visitors to explore the wider town centre after visiting the castle.

This could help increase footfall for nearby shops, cafés, restaurants and other local businesses.

Carrickfergus Waterfront and Public-Space Improvements

The proposals include substantial improvements to public spaces and waterfront areas around Carrickfergus.

Improved walking routes would create stronger connections between:

• Carrickfergus Castle
• Carrickfergus Harbour
• The waterfront
• The historic town centre
• The Town Walls
• Local transport connections

Better lighting, landscaping, seating and public facilities could make these areas safer and more welcoming.

The regeneration plans also aim to make the town easier to navigate for residents and visitors.

Further details about the individual areas included in the project are available on the Carrickfergus Regeneration Project website.

Town Hall, Museum and Civic Centre Improvements

Carrickfergus Town Hall, Museum and Civic Centre would receive improvements under the regeneration plans.

The proposals aim to provide enhanced arts, cultural and community facilities while making better use of the town’s historic civic buildings.

The investment could support:

• Community events
• Cultural performances
• Exhibitions
• Markets
• Educational activities
• Heritage experiences
• Public gatherings

The planned improvements are intended to create a more connected civic and cultural area within the town centre.

Better Access to Carrickfergus Castle

Accessibility is a central part of the Carrickfergus Regeneration Project.

The proposals include new visitor facilities and improved access to Carrickfergus Castle.

Other accessibility improvements are expected to include clearer routes, better crossings, improved seating and enhanced visitor information.

The project aims to make the town’s heritage attractions more accessible to people of different ages and mobility levels.

More information can be found on the project’s inclusivity and accessibility page.

£26.4m Belfast Region City Deal Support

The Carrickfergus project is supported by £26.4 million from the Belfast Region City Deal.

The overall regeneration programme represents a planned investment of £42.2 million.

The investment aims to:

• Increase visitor numbers
• Support local businesses
• Improve public spaces
• Attract further investment
• Celebrate Carrickfergus’ heritage
• Strengthen the town’s tourism economy
• Improve facilities for the local community

The wider ambition is to position Carrickfergus as a heritage-led destination and a gateway to the Causeway Coastal Route.

Community Feedback Helped Shape the Plans

The planning applications follow an extensive period of public consultation.

Residents, businesses, community organisations and visitors were invited to examine the proposals and provide feedback.

That feedback helped inform the designs that have now moved into the formal planning process.

Previous information about the public consultation is available through Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and the Carrickfergus Regeneration consultation update.

What Happens Next?

The proposals will now move through the formal planning process.

The submitted plans will be assessed before work can begin. Further project announcements and planning updates are expected as the scheme progresses.

Residents can learn more by visiting:

• Carrickfergus Regeneration Project
• Mid and East Antrim Borough Council
• Belfast Region City Deal
• Carrickfergus Castle visitor information

What Do You Think of the Carrickfergus Plans?

The £42.2 million regeneration project could bring major changes to Carrickfergus town centre, the waterfront and some of its best-known historic sites.

Do you think the proposals will help Carrickfergus reach its full potential?

Share your views and follow Northern Ireland Online for further updates as the plans move through the planning process.