Proposals for the new play park area at Carnfunnock
Carnfunnock Country Park - a 191-arce site just outside Larne on the beautiful Antrim Coast Road - is set to undergo a major transformation thanks to over £6.1m of funding from UK Levelling Up Fund.
A Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) has now been submitted to the Planning Department for the redevelopment proposal at Carnfunnock - this is the pre-planning process.
A full planning application is currently being prepared for the project which will be completed following feedback received through the public consultation process.
The proposed new visitor centre at Carnfunnock
The innovative plans for Carnfunnock will enhance the natural heritage asset - which will in turn will help revitalise the Larne area and beyond by creating a space that people want to visit and come back to.
The key components of the project will include construction of a new visitor centre which will house a reception/shop space, café and toilet facilities, overlooking the coastline.
It will also see an upgrade to existing caravan park amenity block facility providing modern facilities for the overnight guests.
The proposed new amenity centre at Carnfunnock
A bike park will create an attraction for older children and refurbishment of the adventure play park to include inclusive and accessible play ensuring fun for all. Path infrastructure work and a new maze viewing platform will improve accessibility throughout the site.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Gerardine Mulvenna, said:
“We are delighted to announce the next stages in the redevelopment of Carnfunnock Country Park and look forward to the opportunity to share the innovative plans to date and hear your feedback.
“The plans will transform this ever-popular site, improving current amenities and introducing exciting new additions to the area. The redevelopment will not only make a significant impact on the park, but also the surrounding area.”
The proposed bike park at Carnfunnock
In an online post on Monday (15th January), East Antrim DUP MLA Gordon Lyons commented:
“It’s really good to see that the changes will make the park much more accessible with better disabled access, changing places toilets and an inclusive play park for all abilities.
“Also good to hear that during the construction phase as much of the park will remain open to the public as is possible.”
Carnfunnock Country Park is situated on the famous Antrim Coast Road (A2), 3.5 miles north of Larne town and Larne Harbour and just over 20 miles from Belfast.
Council is keen to hear feedback on the plans from residents and visitors to Carnfunnock Country Park. Information on the consultation process, a link to the consultation survey and key information documents are available online now at:
Proposals will also be displayed at Carnfunnock Country Park.