Former Larne coffee shop and bakery to become place of worship after planning approval

The vacant premises in Larne town centre will plans approved to be used as a place of worship

Planning permission has been granted by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council for the change of use of a former coffee shop and bakery in Larne town centre into a place of worship.

The proposal relates to a vacant commercial premises on Lower Cross Street.

A development management officer’s report said the application proposes internal alterations only, with no external changes to the existing building.

The report noted that places of worship are classified under the Planning (Use Classes) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015 as a form of cultural and community facility.

It added that the Strategic Planning Policy Statement for Northern Ireland identifies one of the regional strategic objectives for town centres and retailing as protecting and enhancing the diversity of town centre uses appropriate to their role and function, including leisure, cultural and community facilities, housing and business.

The report also highlighted that the Mid and East Antrim Local Development Plan 2030 Plan Strategy identifies cultural and community facilities, retail, leisure, entertainment and business uses as appropriate town centre uses.

“Council also expects to see town centres performing to their maximum potential in meeting the needs of citizens and visitors and contributing to the local economy,” the report stated.

“The proposed use as a form of cultural and community facility is considered a town centre use and, in principle, is acceptable.”

Approved floor plans for a new place of worship in Larne town centre

It continued:

“The unit is currently vacant and bringing the unit back into use for the purpose proposed in this application is encouraged by policy to protect the viability and vitality of the town centre.

“The site is located within an appropriate and accessible location inside the development limit of Larne, with good connectivity to public transport. The council is satisfied there is adequate parking available within existing car park areas.”

The report concluded that:

“The use of the building as a place of worship will not have an unacceptable adverse impact upon amenity.”

The approval follows another recent town centre planning decision by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, which granted permission for a new bingo hall and adult gaming centre at Murrayfield Shopping Centre.

The development will see a vacant retail unit, formerly occupied by Poundland, at Point Street brought back into use.