MEA Council approves village link path to boost local walkways and heritage access

The River Maine that runs between Galgorm and Gracehill, Ballymena

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Planning Committee has approved the construction of a path linking two villages outside Ballymena.

The proposal is for the construction of pedestrian paths, fencing, access gates, cattle crossing gates, new planting and resurfacing works. The application is being made by the council.

The proposed site is south of Cennick Road, Gracehill, east of Royal Court, Galgorm Road, adjacent to the River Maine, south of Galgorm Community Centre, Galgorm Road and community gardens.

Above: The proposed new marked in red on the map of the Galgorm / Gracehill area of Ballymena

The new pathway that extends from the car park in Galgorm Castle estate

The path continues across woodland to exit on the existing path at Galgorm Road, and crossing the River Maine.

The path continues winding down by the River then across fields to exit in Gracehill.

A report to the committee indicated there will be a walk-way entrance adjacent to 24 Cennick Grove, Gracehill; two access points from Galgorm Road and additional exits and access along the road to Galgorm Castle.

A section lies to the south of Creative Gardens, leading along the exiting pathway, towards Galgorm roundabout where a new entrance south of the roundabout will cross existing woodland onto Galgorm Road.

“Here the existing public footpath and bridge over the River Maine leads to the western path into Gracehill village,” it explained.

The committee was told Gracehill is a Conservation Area and World Heritage Site.

The committee report stated:

“The paths would mainly run through and around the existing trees and would not significantly alter the overall quality, understanding, experience or enjoyment of the historic demesne.

“Subject to the conditions attached, the development would not impair the archaeological, historic or botanical interest in the site.

“There are listed buildings in close proximity to the proposed pathways, including a listed dwelling at 3 Cennick Road in Gracehill as well as the listed Galgorm Castle and associated buildings. Again, due to the scale and nature of the proposal, the setting of the listed buildings would not be adversely affected,” it said.

The report noted part of the proposed pathway is within the Conservation Area.

“Care has been taken to ensure that a high quality design, materials and finish is to be provided with the existing field pattern being respected. Views into and through the Conservation Area would not be adversely affected by the proposal,” it continued.

“The development improves visitor access and amenity while preserving the visual and cultural integrity of the site.”

The proposed development includes pedestrian access to public roads at Cennick Road and Galgorm Road.

Planning officer Henry McAlister said the “potential impacts on buildings and natural heritage have been carefully considered”.

He indicated that the proposed new path will link with existing footpaths in the area.

Gracehill, Ballymena

In response to a query, Bannside Ulster Unionist Councillor Jackson Minford, was advised that street lighting will not be included in the planned path development.

Cllr Minford also asked if the surface would be suitable for those with accessibility issues. He was told it would be a “firm surface” on relatively flat ground.

In response to pedestrian safety concerns, he was advised there would be gated access. The officer also noted signage is not part of the application.

Ballymena DUP Cllr Reuben Glover asked about the width of the path saying: “I would like it to be accessible for somebody with a wheelchair or a pram.”

The officer indicated it would vary in width, adding that two or three metres should be “adequate for people to meet each other”. When asked about provision of a cycle lane, Mr McAllister replied: “This is more for a shared access. There is no delineation between various uses.”

Bannside DUP Alderman Tom Gordon proposed accepting the recommendation to approve the application seconded by party colleague Cllr Tyler Hoey, also a Bannside representative and approved unanimously following a vote.