TOOME VILLAGE MASTERPLAN

TOOME VILLAGE MASTERPLAN

February 2011

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION

2. CONTEXT 2.1 purpose of the masterplan 2.2 masterplan team 2.3 masterplan process 2.4 demographics

3. HISTORY

4. ANALYSIS 4.1 strategic analysis 4.2 potential markets 4.3 local analysis

5. SHARED VISION

6. CONCEPT PLAN

7. MASTERPLAN INITIATIVES 7.1 village centre 7.1.1 marina development 7.1.2 former O’Neill arms hotel &village square 7.1.3 village park & pedestrian thoroughfare 7.1.4 employment sector 7.1.5 development opportunities 7.2 community facilities sector 7.2.1 permeable pedestrian routes 7.2.2 erin’s own GAC, cargin 7.2.3 residential opportunities 7.3 waterfront & parkland setting 7.3.1 urban water frontage 7.3.2 improved waterside activites 7.3.3 extension of canal walk 7.4 complementary strategies 7.4.1 frontage improvements 7.4.2 interpretation 7.4.3 pathway network 7.4.4 public realm enhancement 7.4.5 joint village/town partnership events

8. DELIVERING THE VILLAGE MASTERPLAN

9. CONCLUSION

10. APPENDICES 1. INTRODUCTION

Toome, positioned at the confluence of the River Bann and Lough Neagh, Northern Ireland, is located approximately twelve miles west of Antrim town with a population of 722 (2001 Census).

The village derives its name from the Irish Tuaim, a ‘tumulus’ or mound of earth or stones raised over a grave, which can literally be translated as ‘burial mound’ or ‘pagan burial place.’ Well documented in Irish language sources due to its strategic importance at the mouth of the Bann, one early reference of the village is made in the 7th century monk Tírechán’s account of St Patrick’s journey through Ireland who travelled through the area.

© OSNI

“There must have been formerly at this place both a sandbank ford across the river and a sepulchral mound near it, for in the Tripartite Life it is called Fearsat Tuama, the farset or ford of the tumulus; but in the annals it is generally called Tuaim.” Archbishop Uilliam Seóighe (Joyce) Excavation work immediately east of the Toome Canal has unearthed the remains of the late 17th century Toome Castle, one of many defensive castles constructed around the shores of Lough Neagh during the 1600’s. Recent excavation work carried out in advance of the A6 Toome Bypass in 2003, revealed evidence of the earliest phase of Irish prehistory settlement on Lough Neagh including Mesolithic hut sites and longboats dating between 5500 and 5200BC.

‘Riverlines’ an eight metre high stainless steel and neon column, commissioned by TIDAL (Toome Industrial Development, Amenities and Leisure Ltd) and designed by Ballintoy based artist Chris Wilson, was inspired by the rich imagery and heritage of the Toome area and takes pride of place alongside the new Bypass, rapidly becoming an iconic and widely recognisable piece of public art at this gateway location.

Like many towns in Northern Ireland, Toome and its people experienced challenging times through the 30 year Troubles. More recently however the village has witnessed a form of renaissance and renewed sense of civic pride, widely due to the strong sense of community spirit evident within the village and the proactive work carried out by the focussed community groups present.

This village masterplan for Toome seeks to build on these strong community values through the incorporation of a vision and initiatives © Chris Wilson that celebrate the villages strong historical connections, rediscovers its abundant natural asset base and contributes to the quality of life for its residents, workers and visitors.

© OSNI Introduction 2. CONTEXT

This masterplan has been commissioned by GROW The masterplan study area is loosely based on the South Antrim through Antrim Borough Council. development limits as defined by the Department It has been part funded by the Department for of the Environment (below). This area extends Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), southwards to include the grounds of Erin’s Own as a core part of the EU Rural Development Cargin GAA Club, the Meadows residential estate Programme Village Renewal Measure. of Village Green along the Moneynick Road to the east, Roguery Road to the north, and Creagh The Masterplan is one of three plans that have Road across the River Bann to the west. been developed simultaneously for the villages of Toome, Doagh and Whitehead and seeks to While the masterplan is largely confined to identify a range of initiatives by which to improve the area defined in the plan below, a holistic the village over the next 5 to 15 years. approach has been taken and as a result several of the strategies listed within Section 7 of this report look beyond these boundaries ensuring that initiatives respond to the wider hinterland.

© OSNI 2.1 Purpose of the Masterplan

A successful masterplan involves the generation of ideas and the preparation of realistic design concepts based on thorough research, analysis and consultation. While non-statutory in nature, a masterplan is an effective tool that provides direction for both physical and non-physical interventions that help shape open space, buildings and landscape in response to growing economic, technological, demographic and social changes. A masterplan should provide flexibility by identifying key principles as opposed to finite blueprint solutions. It includes a strategic vision and concept for how a place might develop and should include sufficient detail at key locations so that the vision can be tested for economic and functional viability.

By studying and thinking about the village holistically, it is intended that individual projects can be coordinated to maximise their contribution to making Toome a better place in which to live, work, play, invest and visit. This plan will not replace statutory planning policy for the area, but will help key organisations from the public, private and community sectors to plan for and target their investment wisely.

The purpose of the Masterplan is to provide a strategic vision for the comprehensive and sustainable development of Toome village over the next 5 to 15 years.

2.2 Masterplan Team

The Village Masterplan process was overseen by a Steering Group comprising officers, officials and elected representatives of Antrim Borough Council, the local community and several community associations.

The masterplan was prepared by the multidisciplinary consultant team The Paul Hogarth Company (Urban Designers and Landscape Architects) with specialised costing services provided by Nolan Ryan Tweeds. Context 2.3 Masterplan Process

The steps taken throughout the course of the Masterplan process are outlined with the graphic above. During the initial ‘Information Gathering’ stage, numerous site visits and surveys were conducted each supported by detailed photographic records, while desktop research involving the review of existing plans and initiatives was also undertaken. Comprehensive stakeholder consultation also formed a key component of the information gathering stage and included an open public consultation event in addition meetings with numerous statutory agencies. The analysis stage involved the examination of land and building uses in the context of the historic growth of the village as well as gaining an understanding from the feedback gained from earlier consultation meetings.

Guided by the Steering Group, a strong concept and vision statement with accompanying aims and objectives were then formulated which set the scene for the key physical, social and economic initiatives that ultimately formed the village Masterplan. Following on from the success of the earlier public consultation event, a public exhibition was held at Toome House enabling residents of Toome to review the draft Masterplan and submit their comments. A copy of the Consultation Report is included within the Appendices. From the outset of this project, the Steering Group emphasised the importance of MASTERPLAN PROCESS gaining input from a large cross section of village residents in order to help shape the Masterplan. Information Gathering (Document Review, Site Appraisal Stakeholder Consultation

Analysis

Client Review

Concept Proposals

Client Review

Draft Masterplan

Client Review

Public Exhibition

Draft Documents

Client Review

Final Masterplan and Action Plan

Launch with apopulationofmorethan500people. Information is provided outside for settlements in are this band Areas. Urban which Derry and Metropolitan Belfast of the majority less the of 1,000, population than a with settlements definition includes This Countryside’. Open and Hamlet Village, ‘Small labelled areas to relates H Band the has settlement following profilerecordedinthe2001Census. this and countryside open and hamlet village, small a as classified is Toome 2.4 Demographics Unemployed persons inemployment(male) Persons inemployment(femaile) No qualifications Degree leveleducationorhigher Access toacarorvan Detached houses/bungalows Owner-occupied households Providing unpaidcare Persons withlimitinglong-termillness Ethnic groupotherthanwhite Born outsideNI Protestant andotherChristian Catholic (CommunityBackground) Female Male Over 60yearsofage Under 16yearsofage Comparisons (%) Percentage SETTLEMENT Toome 57.8 42.2 55.4 66.8 32.6 49.1 23.0 96.3 51.3 48.8 10.9 27.2 6.2 8.4 8.6 0.0 4.7 2.9 2001 CENSUS-NORTHERNIRELANDSTATISTICS&RESEARCHAGENCY (NISRA) Northern in census Ireland will take place on Sunday 27 March 2011. next The (NISRA). Research Agency and Statistics Ireland Northern the of years and is carried out by the Census Office, part A census of population is normally taken every ten in thetablebelow. presented is picture, Ireland Northern overall with the comparison in Toome, in living people the 224 of of characteristics total demographic The a households. with people 722 was 2001) (29th April day Census on Toome of population The CLASSIFICATION BAND and opencountryside small village,hamlet 51.1 17.0 24.3 58.7 41.3 43.2 14.5 87.9 72.4 82.4 10.7 18.2 50.7 47.5 48.9 3.3 0.4 7.6 N.IRELAND 48.7 17.6 23.6 55.0 45.0 41.6 15.8 73.7 36.5 69.6 11.0 20.4 53.1 43.8 51.3 4.1 0.8 9.0 NI

History 3. HISTORY

Artefacts recovered during the Bann Drainage Historical records show that Toome was a thriving Schemes have identified Toome and surrounding market town at the turn of the century and by areas as human settlements that were populated 1910, despite a population of only 210 persons, well before the arrival of Christianity to Ireland popular weekly markets were held for the sale in the sixth century. In 1792 when Lord O’Neill of agricultural produce while every month well constructed the bridge across the Bann, the attended cattle fairs took centre stage. Sadly the village became officially known as Toomebridge arrival of modern buses saw the gradual demise and later shortened to Toome, the title most of the railways with the Toome line closing to frequently used by residents today. passenger traffic on 28 August 1950 and finally closing all together on 1 October 1959. Toome railway station was opened on 10 November 1856 with the line running from Toome through Castledawson and on to Magherafelt from which a branch line carried traffic through to Moneymore and Cookstown. Little evidence of this railway line remains within the village today other than some upright structures of the old railway bridge and the residential estate of ‘Station Park’ off Main Street.

One of the village’s most famous historical figures was that of Rody McCorley, born in the townland of Duneane a few miles outside Toome. A leader of the United Irishmen, McCorley led his men at the Battle of Antrim and successfully seized Randalstown before being captured, court martialled and sentenced to death at Ballymena. From Ballymena he was marched to Toome to be executed on the Bridge of Toome on Good Friday 1799.

“Rody McCorley belonged not merely to Duneane or Toome but to Ireland, and he gave his life for the sacred cause of Irish nationhood. It was patriotism and love of country that brought them there that day. It was their duty as Irishmen to work and strive for the freedom of Ireland, and in doing that they would not be infringing on the rights of others. They were not Imperialistic in their aims. They did not want to possess even a foot of foreign soil. But they did want their own soil for their own people.”

Rev. J. Canon Byrne, 1954 A monument was erected during the months of September and October 1954 with the unveiling ceremony conducted by the Very Rev J. Canon Byrne on 1st November in the presence of “Toomebridge is in the parish representatives of Irish Ireland organisations. of Duneane, Barony of Upper

The eight sided Fountain of Liberty, erected by Toome a little over 36 miles John Carey at the junction of the Gloverstown by rail north west of Belfast Road and Main Street while decommissioned, is complete with its water pump and mounted and a population of less than dedication plate announcing that the water 150 people. It is situated on is free to all. Little is known about the early life of John Carey until 1800 when at the age of the Derry Central Railway 22 he was accepted into the Old College at Line which connects with the Belfast where young men trained to become Presbyterian Ministers. main Belfast to Derry line at Cookstown Junction outside In addition to its historical significance, the village of Toome is renowned for its relationship with the Antrim.” River Bann with its main industry, the Eels Fishery, being located along its western shores. This George Henry Bassett, 1888 establishment supplies the continental market and continues a tradition that has thrived since people first settled in the area.

Toome also boasts an array of celebrities such as the motorcycle road racing Laverty brothers Michael, John and Eugene and as the birthplace of the world famous rugby player Willie John McBride, who could boast an impressive 63 caps playing for Ireland. Actor Richard Todd who appeared in over forty films, most notably the Dam Busters in 1955, also had strong family connections with Toome while more recently jockey A P McCoy, a native of Toome, has been voted the 2010 BBC Sports Personality of the Year, an accolade which arrives on the back of a magnificent Grand National victory earlier in the year.

It is against this backdrop of a rich and vibrant history that it is possible to focus on the modern day village to Toome and to consider its future development. History 4. ANALYSIS 4.1 Strategic Analysis

The Consultant Team carried out a thorough From strategic analysis, Toome was seen to play analysis of Toome comprising desktop studies, a pivotal role on many levels in its multi-layered site visits and surveys and public consultation. relationships with its immediate and wider surroundings. As the analysis process revealed, Toome is a village with many qualities, including its strategic • Firstly, the definition of Toome as a community location and proximity to the River Bann and transcends the village boundaries to include Lough Neagh. Key to the future of the village will area such as Marion Hill and Ballydugennan be finding a way to successfully capitalise upon Villas immediately northeast and south east these and other assets, while also addressing the of the village respectively. challenges it faces. • Secondly, Toome was found to have close connections with Lough Beg based around fishing activities on the River Bann, Lough Beg synonymous with pike fishing while Toome renowned for perch and roach and of course the famous eels fishery. • Thirdly, Toome is strategically located in relation to the Lough Neagh offer and the role it can play as a key destination along its northern shore, which is also linked to the fourth layer namely the importance of the village as the meeting place of the Lough and the River Bann. • Finally a wider relationship was noted along the extent of Bann hinterland in relation to the earliest phase of Irish prehistory settlements and the Mesolithic connections with such places as the town of Coleraine. 4.2 Potential Markets

While the village masterplan will work hard to ensure These local based markets would be underpinned that the village of Toome functions independently by Toome’s strategic location between the cities to the benefits of its residents, workers and visitors, of Belfast and Derry and the top class infrastructure analysis showed that opportunities also exist to already in place. ‘team up’ with neighbouring towns and villages in the pursuit of wider strategies, particularly in Through the realisation of the Ulster Canal, a new relation to its future tourism offer. waterside entrance to Toome could be formalised by way of the villages strategic positioning along One potential local market, identified during an ‘All Ireland Waterways Network’ with the the analysis stage, includes the forging of the potential to strengthen water connections with relationship between Toome and Lough Neagh Scotland, Wales and England and capitalising on and Lough Beg. The potential for this market the popularity of cruising holidays in continental would mainly appear to lie in the water based Europe. activities on offer at both locations and the strategic position of Toome between these two water bodies.

A further local market that was identified lies in the wealth of historical and cultural context that is associated with the village and the wider hinterland. Stories ranging from the villages Mesolithic connections and highly lucrative diatomite mining industry to the epic journey of the eels from the Sargasso Sea in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean to Lough Neagh, all have a part to play in raising the profile of Toome and placing the village firmly on the map. Analysis 4.3 Local Analysis

Analysis work was also carried out in relation to While an element of commercial development the functioning of the village which is illustrated does contribute to the vitality of village life, it was on the plan opposite. found that large pockets of prime land within the centre of the village, notably at Market Square, While Toome was felt to be suffering somewhat had been fenced off for uses which may be from the lack of an identifiable centre, village life more appropriately located elsewhere, such as did appear to concentrate around the limited the TIDAL light industrial estate. The freeing up of commercial offer at the junctions of Main Street, these large prime sites could present numerous Roguery Road and Market Square. However opportunities for the village enabling residents to the centre of gravity was seen to have drifted reclaim its centre while embracing the waterfront southwards over the past few years following setting presented by the Bann. the establishment of several retail outlets along the west side of Main Street immediately north of Toome House.

A concentration of community facilities have been established on the southern side of the village centre, comprising Toome House, St Oliver Plunkett Church and Toome Primary School which are easily accessible by the residential communities of Trea Gardens and The Meadows, both located along the southern peripheral edge of Toome.

The hidden jewel that is ‘Canal Walk’ at Toome Canal does provide a secluded haven along the eastern banks of the Bann, however access to this asset was found to be limited and its ability to connect laterally into the village had not been utilised. The main analysis findings, which form the basis upon which the vision and concept plan have been formulated, can be summarised as follows;

• Toome has enviable position at the meeting • Pipeline housing growth – need to be mindful place of Bann Valley and Lough Neagh of the impact of growth on village character Basin • Underutilised historic and cultural assets - • These natural assets currently do not play a historical events and local iconic figures key role in the functioning of the village • Substantial amount of derelict buildings and • Strategic position between Belfast and Derry poor levels of environmental quality

• Great infrastructure with additional plans • Opportunities and threats posed by afoot development sites – strategic approach required • Proactive and successful community – scope for wider inclusion of all residents • Scope to Improve External perceptions of Toome – linked to local morale and • Toome village serves a wider ‘parish’ aspirations settlement – Marion Hill & Ballydugennan Villas • Large scale industrial and employment base – scope to strengthen relationship with village Analysis 5. SHARED VISION

Following extensive consultation with the village community, a visioning exercise was carried out by the local steering group based on the analysis work carried out to date with support from the consultant team.

During this exercise, members of the Steering Group were broken into teams in order to determine what type of place they would like Toome to become, which challenged each team to identify future qualities that would complement the villages existing distinctive features. The visioning exercise required the participants to select key adjectives that best described Toome of the future and culminated in clear patterns emerging between the results of the various discussion groups. Following an open process of discussion, debate and refinement a shared vision was conceived which reflects the views and aspirations that the residents of Toome have for their village.

This vision statement now forms the basis upon which all masterplan initiatives must be tested against and contribute to.

SHARED VISION STATEMENT “As a key location along the All Ireland Waterways Network, Toome will reinvent its relationship with the River Bann and Lough Neagh to become a vibrant and attractive tourist destination which capitalises on its strategic waterfront setting and historic Irish pioneer origins.

Well connected and safe residential communities set within a wider wetlands environment, coupled with a strong local based mixed economy, will ensure that Toome becomes a welcoming and affordable place in which to live, visit, work and play.” Consolidate the Village Heart Strengthening a Local Based Economy One of the main findings during the analysis As a result of an economic appraisal carried out stage was the lack of an identifiable centre by TIDAL (Toomebridge Industrial Development within Toome. Once a thriving market town, Amenities and Regeneration Group) into the the centre of Toome which historically revolved need for industrial development within the around Main Street and Market Square, has village, the successful TIDAL industrial Estate, seen a level of decline in more recent years as covering an area of approximately 16 acres, was witnessed by the vacancy levels within retail established along the Roguery Road. Located in units along the western side of Main Street. As close proximity to the centre of the village, with previously mentioned, large plots of land within easy access onto the Toome Bypass, this estate the village centre have also been sterilised by has gone from strength to strength with further uses which may be more appropriately located expansion plans afoot. The masterplan aims to elsewhere. The masterplan should therefore aim build on the ongoing success of this project by to consolidate the village heart by promoting encouraging additional employment based uses an appropriate mix of landuses and improved in appropriate locations along the fringe of the environmental quality. village.

Connected and Vibrant Communities Embrace the River Bann and Lough Neagh From the analysis plan, the residential communities In a similar fashion to the range of historical and can be seen along the peripheral edges of cultural assets on offer, Toome is also blessed with a the village. While those residential estates significant natural asset base primarily comprising along the southern edge are in close proximity the River Bann and Lough Neagh. Despite these to the community facilities along Main Street, two water bodies, waterside activities within the connections between these estates and those village are surprisingly limited. TIDAL’s ambitious services within the village centre rely heavily on plans for a marina along the northern edge of the existing footpaths along busy roads. Lateral the village will undoubtedly reverse this trend and connections across the village linking these the masterplan will work hard to enable village residential estates to each other and to public activities to be extended along the Bann with open spaces improved connectivity to Lough Neagh.

Realising Historic and Cultural Assets The village of Toome and its surroundings boast a wealth of historic and cultural assets ranging from the overgrown site of Toome Castle and remains of the Temple of Liberty to the memorials in hour of Rody McCorley and John Carey, while further afield lies some hidden jewels including the Old Mass Rock at Ballynamullan and the picturesque site of the Holy Well and harbour at Cranfield. Despite these assets being on the doorstep of the village, Toome has yet to realise their full potential by way of heritage trails, wayfinding signs or dedicated walking routes and the promotion of the village as a base from which this array of attractions can be visited. Shared Vision 6. CONCEPT PLAN

Applying aims and objectives to the physical The concept plan also includes a new marina village leads us to the Concept Plan, which sets located along the northern edge of the village. in place some of the key strategic measures that This facility, which is being pursued by the local will help the contribution to, and realisation of, community group TIDAL, would put Toome firmly the shared vision. back onto the nautical map of Ireland and present significant opportunities for increased This diagrammatic plan identifies the key strategic tourism and leisure through the creation of a new moves proposed for Toome and forms the basis front door to the village. for the masterplan. Key features include joining together the village’s parks and open spaces to Scope has also been identified for mixed use form a network of green spaces to help provide a development alongside the marina to provide wonderful resource for residents and visitors alike, future space for community facilities, retail and helping to make Toome a green and healthy living space. This would be accompanied by village. improvements to existing building frontages and pavements within the centre of the village.

Pedestian routes along Bann

Wetlands

Marina integrated with village Defined Village Core

Well connected employment base

Civic Space

Extension of Canal Walk 7. MASTERPLAN INITIATIVES

The Masterplan sets out how the village of Toome The plan also identifies opportunities for new mixed may look in 5 to 15 years time and includes used development, which would strengthen the improvements to existing buildings and spaces, village centre and create space for enhanced along with the potential for new development. community uses, and in time, once market Most importantly, the masterplan focuses on conditions are favourable, new space for the ensuring that Toome has a vibrant village centre growth of local businesses, as well as housing. and that it is designed for people first, as opposed to vehicles and seeks to reconnect the village The following masterplan initiatives are grouped with the river and Lough through a network of into three distinct zones – namely the village green spaces, a new urban waterfront in the centre, community facilities area and the village and a marina facility. waterfront and parkland setting.

Wetlands

Marina

Village Park

Urban Waterfront

Civic Space

Employment uses

Toome House

Green connections through village

Toome Castle remains

Redeveloped Cargin GAA facilities Concept In addition, the village masterplan identifies a 7.1 Village Centre number of opportunities for new development, including the former O’Neills Arms hotel site and The village centre of Toome is attractive and has former PSNI station. greatly benefitted from the construction of the bypass which has resulted in a dramatic decrease Scope also exists to work with other landowners to in through traffic. Now that heavy traffic for the develop their village centre sites in a way that is most part utilises this bypass, scope now exists to attractive and appropriate, potentially involving reexamine the future roles of existing streets within the relocation of wholesale retail operations to Toome with a view to encouraging pedestrian more suitable locations elsewhere in the village. priority measures within the village centre.

In addition to specific initiatives, the village masterplan also proposes complementary strategies to the village centre comprising frontage improvements such as new paintwork and signage as well as public realm improvements which includes high quality surfacing to pavements, new street furniture and designated parking bays at strategic locations. These strategies are discussed in further detail within section 7.4 of this report.

Marina

Wetlands

Village Park Pedestrian thoroughfare

Rody McCorley Memorial

Extended movement network

New link route Civic Space

Development potential

Employment uses 7.1.1 Marina Development 7.1.2 Former O’Neill Arms Hotel & Village Square The TIDAL community group has received grant aid assistance in hiring a consultant to look at The masterplan proposes a new village space the feasibility of developing a marina along the fronting the hotel at Market Square. This civic northern edge of the village on the eastern banks space extends across both Main Street and Market of the Bann. Once realised, this ambitious plan Square, with new development opportunities will establish a new destination site in the north of enabling animation along its northern and western the village, create a new waterside entrance to edges. As the surface treatment of this space Toome and act as a catalyst for further waterside extends across Main Street, the redeveloped based activities in this location. White River Hotel will provide activity along its eastern edge, enabling the square to be utilised Benefitting from direct vehicular access from as both a spill out space for the new hotel as well the bypass via Roguery Road, a new marina at as a purpose built civic space for the residents of Toome will also unlock the development potential the village to hold events and meet socially. of additional vacant sites along the northern section of Main Street, most notably the former While the masterplan does not advocate the PSNI station close to the bridge. removal of vehicular traffic from this space, the incorporation of ‘pedestrian priority’ measures The masterplan fully embraces this ambitious will ensure safer crossing points for pedestrians proposal and will work to ensure that the at this key junction. It will also provide residents proposed marina is fully integrated with the with the opportunity to close off the entire space, village centre, both physically and socially. To in consultation with Roads Service, for particular this end, proposals include a potential canal link civic events and functions. from the Bann through the marina site, which will not only increase the commercial attractiveness of this area through the increased waterfront setting but will also enable boat repair works 7.1.3 Village Park & to be carried out at the industrial estates along Marina Roguery Road. Pedestrian Thoroughfare

Opportunities also exist to establish a purpose The former PSNI station site along the northern section of Main Street presents an opportunity to Wetlands built stand alone community building along the Bann together with the commissioning of public provide new mixed use development with active art pieces which demarcate the entrance to the frontages along both Main Street and the River marina and recount the village’s colourful historic Bann. past. The future redevelopment of the adjoining service Village Park station site could also enable the establishment of Pedestrian a village park overlooked by new development thoroughfare opportunities along its western and eastern edges. This development must ensure direct visual and Rody McCorley Memorial physical connectivity with the proposed marina site immediately to the north. Extended movement network

New link route Civic Space

Development potential

Employment uses Masterplan Initiatives 7.1.4 Employment Sector

In accordance with one of the main masterplan aims, which is also reflected within the vision statement, proposals are included to provide employment based uses as a natural extension to the successful TIDAL industrial estate along the Roguery Road.

Here additional lands are proposed within the village development limits for light industrial employment generating uses enabling business enterprises to remain locally within purpose designed estates with direct vehicular access to the bypass. The establishment of a wetlands area to the north and east of these lands will place emphasis on the design quality of those business units with direct frontage onto this area.

7.1.5 Development Opportunities

As can been seen from those brown shaded blocks within the masterplan, a number of development opportunities are proposed within the village centre. Together they represent an aspiration of how the village centre could grow over the long term. St Oliver Plunkett Church The setting out of a development framework of this nature allows the masterplan to put in place Toome Primary broad strategies, such as key views, pedestrian School connections and active frontages that should be Environmental taken into account in the assessment of future Improvements development within the village centre.

Residential Development

Permeable pedestrian routes

Re-developed GAA facilities 7.2 Community Facilities Sector

Toome has good community facilities, most notably Toome House which performs many important functions. However, it is recognised that the village would benefit from large internal and external spaces for gathering, as well as enhanced sports facilities.

The masterplan therefore includes proposals to work with the GAA to upgrade their facilities at Cargin, as well as finding opportunities for a new community hall in the vicinity of the former PSNI station.

Civic space

Toome House

Green corridor

St Oliver Plunkett Church

Toome Primary School Environmental Improvements

Residential Development

Permeable pedestrian routes

Re-developed GAA facilities Masterplan Initiatives 7.2.1 Permeable Pedestrian Routes

Toome benefits from having a large number of its community facilities concentrated in close proximity to each other in and around the southern stretch of Main Street. Toome House, St Oliver Plunkett’s Church, Toome Primary School and Erins Own Cargin GAA Club are all within walking distance of each other and are easy accessible by the two residential estates of Trea Gradens and The Meadows at Moneynick Road.

The masterplan aims to strengthen, and where possible, formalise new dedicated pedestrian connections between these areas. One key route is the establishment of an east-west green corridor connecting Canal Walk to the proposed Wetlands area, enabling a safe and dedicated pedestrian route to connect laterally across the village with stop off points to Toome Primary School, Toome House and St Oliver Plunketts’ Church along its length.

7.2.2 Erins Own GAC Cargin

As part of the consultation process, the consultant team met with representatives of Erins Own GAC Cargin in order to gain an insight to their ambitious plans for the club. These plans include the demolition of the existing club house and its replacement with a larger purpose built structure that not only improves the sporting facilities available but also offers additional community services in the form of a dedicated crèche and restaurant.

A large surface car park is also included as part of the plans on lands fronting the existing playing field, which are under their ownership. This proposal, which forms an integral part of the masterplan, will ensure that the facility services are more widely available to the adjoining residential estates as well as providing much needed services to the wider community.

7.2.3 Residential Opportunities

Additional residential opportunities have been identified to the rear of properties located at the junction of Main Street and Gloverstown Road. Here potential perimeter blocks are proposed which enable a clear delineation between public and private spaces while providing an element of passive surveillance to the new streets and wetlands area.

7.3 Waterfront and Parkland Setting

Toome is fortunate to have an exemplar natural setting, including Canal Walk along the River Bann. Through the masterplan it is proposed to expand this network of green spaces, providing a recreational resource for local people and visitors. This would include using the line of the former railway as a greenway and carefully excavating the foundations of Toome Castle next to Toome Lock and providing historical interpretation. Opportunity also exists in time to establish foot and cycle paths to the north and east of the village, in association with the winter- feeding grounds of the popular Whooper Swans.

Public Art

Marina Canal link

Potential community use

Village Park

Mooring facilities

Active frontages Urban water frontage

Civic Spaces Partially restored Carlisle Bridge connection

Nature trail / Walking routes

New pedestrian link to spurn Integration of Canal Walk with Village

Site of Toome Castle

Passive surveillance Masterplan Initiatives 7.3.1 Urban Water Frontage

In releasing prime land around Market Square, The masterplan also proposes sensitive through the relocation of existing wholesale retail refurbishment work to the site of the remains of operations to more suitable locations elsewhere Toome Castle, which is located in close proximity in the village, opportunities exist to extend the to Toome Lock and is completely overgrown. village centre westwards to embrace the River Works would include the removal of existing Bann and formalise new urban water frontage in foliage from the site and the erection of historic this location. information boards, new seating and lighting.

Here mixed use development is proposed which Opportunities also exists to extend Canal incorporates active frontages at ground floor Walk northwards towards the village centre level while enabling the upper floors to be utilised connecting seamlessly with the proposed urban for residential and office use. Weather permitting, water frontage and onwards to the marina site, active ground floor uses along the Bann could while a new pedestrian link to the existing spurn then spill out onto a new riverside street, taking will allow nature trails and walking routes to be advantage of the panoramic views on offer while developed within this unique setting. animating this busy pedestrian thoroughfare.

7.3.2 Improved Waterside Activities

In conjunction with the promotion of an urban water frontage along the Bann, additional waterside activities such as new mooring facilities and formalised boating and canoeing launch points along this stretch.

7.3.3 Extension of Canal Walk

While the much revered ‘Canal Walk’ does enable public access along Toome Canal, culminating in a look-out point at its most southerly point, limited access points along its route result in the majority of users having to enter and exit the walk via the main entrance close to Carlisle Bridge.

The masterplan advocates the extension of Canal Walk where possible through the village resulting in a dedicated ‘greenway’ which promotes safe pedestrian routes connecting the various community buildings such as Toome House, St Oliver Plunkett’s Church, Toome Primary School and Erins Own Cargin GAA Club. 7.4 Complementary 7.4.5 Joint Village/Town Strategies Partnership Events

The masterplan proposes a number of different open spaces within the village that could be 7.4.1 Frontage used for a range of community events. It is also recommended that Toome seeks to establish an Improvements annual event which will attract visitors. A number of buildings through Toome while not requiring redevelopment would benefit from Suggestions so far have included an annual fishing improvements to their frontages. A condition festival which could tie in with similar activities at survey of all building frontages in the village neighbouring villages of Bellaghy and Ballyronan centre should be undertaken to identify how they or a cycling competition which takes advantage can be improved. Measures would be likely to of the villages location at the crossing point of include painting, replacement of inappropriate two national cycle routes (94 and 96). fixtures and fittings and the coordination of signage design.

Priority should be given to buildings in the most prominent locations, so that their improvement contributes to the condition of the village as a whole.

7.4.2 Interpretation

Toome has a wealth of history, much of which could pass unnoticed to the visitor and possibly, some of its newer residents. It is therefore proposed to implement an Interpretation Strategy across the village, so that its many stories and legends can be shared with local people and visitors alike. Well-written and illustrated information panels should be complemented with other interpretative initiatives, including public art and lighting.

7.4.3 Pathway Network

The masterplan has identified a major opportunity in Toome to extend its network of pathways. Efforts should be made to establish a series of looped walks around and through the village, varying in length and character. These would be suitable for a wide range of users, including dog walkers, hikers, cyclists and horse riders.

7.4.4 Public Realm Enhancement

Toome’s streets and spaces would benefit from a coordinated strategy to improve the way in which they both look and function. It is therefore proposed that a programme of public realm enhancement is initiated. This would involve upgrading of pedestrian areas and the introduction of good quality street furniture and lighting. Such a project should also incorporate Complementary Strategies improvements to the road network, with scope for traffic calming measures in some areas. 8. DELIVERING THE VILLAGE MASTERPLAN

Successful delivery of the Toome Village Masterplan will require a collaborative approach involving many stakeholders from the public, private and community sectors. This should be overseen by a coordinating committee, made up of representatives of the local community, Antrim Borough Council, Government Departments and Agencies, local businesses, clubs and societies.

Regular involvement of local residents in the Masterplan delivery process is to be strongly recommended, so that they are aware of progress and can contribute to shaping its direction. This could include design workshops, newsletters, websites and direct involvement in the delivery of certain projects.

Coordination of the masterplan delivery process should be based on the Action Plan for Delivery. This document identifies each of the masterplan proposals, along with an indication of their priority, timeframe, outline cost and the stakeholders whose involvement will be necessary. The table should be used a live document, so that progress can be monitored regularly and updated accordingly.

Invariably, new initiatives and opportunities will arise, which should be assessed against the aims and objectives of the masterplan and added to the Action Plan.

At the time of writing, Northern Ireland is on a slow road to recovery from a major recession. This has resulted in spending cutbacks in both the public and private sectors. As funding for future capital projects will therefore be limited, it will be important to identify a wide range of potential funding sources and to carefully match them with projects of the masterplan. All of the masterplan proposals are designed to reap physical, social and economic benefits for Toome. Their implementation should therefore be seen as a key means of strengthening the economic sustainability of the village. 

Regeneration Initiative Description Potential Stakeholders Priority Cost* (£m) Timeframe A1 Toome Marina Marina, associated development and car parking facilities H M 5.72** TACG, GROW, ABC, Priv, NIEA, DARD, LNP, PS A2 Marina Canal Waterway from River Bann to TIDAL industrial estate M L 1.70** TACG, GROW, ABC, NIEA, DARD, PS A3 Main Street (Creagh Rd to Moneynick Rd) HS High quality public realm incl paving, street furniture and lighting and HS 4.13 ABC, Priv, RS, PS, NIEA, DSD, SUS A4 Market Square rationalisation of on-street car parking A5 Roguery Road (Main St to Marina) HM A6 River Bann/Marina Canal Civic Space Waterfront civic space M M 4.50 ABC, NIEA, DARD, Priv A7 Main Street Civic Spaces High quality civic spaces at Market Square and Station Park H S 1.85 ABC, RS, PS, NIEA, DSD, SUS, Priv Village Centre A8 Village Park Pocket Park within marina setting M M 1.10 ABC, PS, RS, Priv A9 Wetlands Establishment of wetlands parkland incl. walkways, lighting and seating M M 2.96** ABC, NIEA, RSPB, RS, PS, Priv A10 McCorley Memorial and Public Art Repositioning of memorial and new public art at marina M M 0.15** ABC, RMCCS, NIEA, Priv, RS, PS, DSD A11 Eels Fishery Partial refurbishment including tourist centre facilities M M 1.00 ABC, DARD, Priv A12 Village Centre Car Parking Opportunities New surface car parks and associated works (x3) M L 1.28 Priv, ABC, RS A13 Improved Transport Infrastructure New pedestrian and vehicular routes M L 1.15 Priv, RS, ABC, PS, NIEA A14 Frontager Improvements Works include rerendering, repainting, glazing and signage H S 0.10 ABC, Priv, NIEA, PS, RS B1 Erin's Own Cargin GAA Club Redeveloped and refurbished clubhouse and car parking facilities H S 2.45 GAA, Priv, ABC, SNI, PS Community M M 0.83 Facilities B2 Community Building Stand alone community centrewithin riverside setting ABC, DSD, PS, Priv B3 Walking Routes Dedicated walking routes incl. connection between Canal Walk and Main Street H S 3.00** ABC, SUS, DSD, Priv C1 Urban Waterfront (Canal Walk to Marina) High quality public realm incl paving, street furniture and lighting M M 0.90 Priv, NIEA, ABC, DARD, PS Waterfront C2 Toome Bridge Improvements to existing pedestrian walkways M M 1.00 ABC, NIEA, RS, SUS, Priv and Parkland Setting C3 Toome Castle Excavation, landscaping, gateway markers and lighting H S 0.06** NIEA, NITB, ABC, PS, Priv C4 Toome Canal Civic Space M M 1.00 DARD, NITB, NIEA, ABC, PS

D1 Mixed Use Development Mixed Use opportunities within village core H M 28.80 Village Centre M M 56.97 Priv, ABC, NIEA, TACG, NIHE, RS, PS Dev Opps D2 Residential Development Residential opportunities at Station Park, Market Square and Gloverstown Road D3 Light Industrial Development Employment opportunities adjacent to TIDAL industrial estate H M 23.26

S1 Frontage Improvements Scheme Condition surveys and frontager improvements HS  ABC, Priv, NIEA, NITB, PS S2 Interpretation, Orientation and Public Art Coordinated programme of signage and interpretative art HS  ABC, NITB, NIEA Additional HS Strategies S3 Pathway Network Promotion of a network of dedicated pathways within and around village  ABC, Priv, NIEA, DSD, SUS, PS S4 Public Realm Enhancement Scheme Rolling out of public realm improvements throughout village HS  ABC, Priv, RS, PS, NIEA, DSD,SUS S5 Joint Village/Town Partnership Scheme Identification of a range of community events and tourism initiatives HS  ABC, NITB, MDC, BBC, CDC, LNP, Priv

Key: Priority H = High, M = Medium, L = Low. Timeframe S = Short (1 - 5 yrs), M = Medium (5 - 10 yrs), L = Long (10 - 15 yrs). Immediate

*All costs approximate and rounded to the nearest £1000. **Subject to condition report.

Delivery Agents & Stakeholders: ABC = Antrim Borough Council, BBC = Ballymena Borough Council, CDC = Cookstown Dictrict Council, DARD = Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, DENI = Department of Education Northern Ireland, DSD = Department for Social Development, GAA = Gaelic Athletic Association, GROW = Generating Rural Opportunities Within South Antrim, LNP = Lough Neagh Partnership, MDC = Magherafelt District Council, NIEA = Northern Ireland Environment Agency, NIHE = Northern Ireland Housing Executive, NITB = Northern Ireland Tourist Board, Priv = Private Sector, PS = Planning Service, RA = Rivers Agency, RS = Roads Service, RSPB = The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, RMCCS = Roddy McCorley Society, SNI = Sport Northern Ireland, SUS = Sustrans, TACG = Toome Association of Community Groups Delivery 9. CONCLUSION

This Village Masterplan for Toome sets out an ambitious plan for the future, representative of the hopes and aspirations of its people. While some of its projects are significant in scale, others are much smaller but of no lesser importance. By capitalising more fully on the village’s rich natural and built heritage, Toome has significant potential to become a visitor destination while being improved as a place in which to live.

The future of Toome lies in the hands of many and key to the success of this masterplan will be a collaborative approach to its delivery. However, with the continued drive and passion of its residents, Toome can look forward to a long and prosperous future. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Consultation Events,arelistedbelow; Community the in part took and Group Steering the within represented were who organisations These stakeholders, together the with those during community stakeholders key development ofthevillagemasterplan. with meetings held consultation separate were process, of gathering number information a the of part As 10. Translink. Toome IndustrialDevelopment,AmenitiesandLeisureGroup(TIDAL); Toome AssociationofCommunityGroups; Toome &DistrictWomen’sGroup; The RoyalSocietyfortheProtectionofBirds; Rodai MacCorlaiSociety; Planning Service; Northern IrelandHousingExecutive; Northern IrelandEnvironmentAgency; Lough NeaghPartnership; Libraries NI; Gortgill CommunityHall; Erin’s OwnCarginGAAClub; DRD RoadsService; Antrim BoroughCouncil; APPENDICES

Conclusion

Toome Village Masterplan

Consultation Feedback Report November 2010

CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION 2

1.1 Purpose of Report 2 1.2 Objective of Consultation Event 2 1.3 Consultation Period 2 1.4 Consultation Boards 2 1.5 Additional Consultation Activities 3 1.6 Public Consultation Event 3 1.7 Feedback Forms 3 1.8 Feedback Process 3 1.9 Processing of Feedback Forms 4

2 PUBLIC CONSULTATION FEEDBACK 5

2.1 Quantity of Feedback 5 2.2 Late and/or Rejected Feedback 5 2.3 Feedback Categories 5

ANNEXES A Invitation Poster 7 B Photos from the evening public consultation session 9 C Feedback Form 11 D Feedback Received - Consultation Responses 13 E Feedback Received – Public Consultation Session 15

TOOME VILLAGE MASTERPLAN 2 CONSULTATION FEEDBACK REPORT

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose of Report

1.1.1 This report serves to summarise the process and findings of the Public Consultation process conducted in relation to the Draft Toome Village Masterplan between 11 October 2010 and 5 November 2010.

1.1.2 The Draft Village Masterplan sought to identify a range of initiatives that set in place a 5 to 10 year vision for the physical development and socio-economic regeneration of Toome. This masterplan has been commissioned by GROW South Antrim through Antrim Borough Council and is being developed by The Paul Hogarth Company, with guidance of a Steering Group of local stakeholders and represents one of three masterplans being developed simultaneously for the villages of Toome, Whitehead and Doagh.

1.2 Objective of Consultation Event

1.2.1 From the outset both the Client and Steering Group placed emphasis on the residents and business/community representatives of Toome in helping to shape the development of the village masterplan. A 4 week consultation process was held during which members of the public were invited to review the draft proposals and submit their comments. The comments would then be taken into consideration by the Consultant Team and Steering Group and where appropriate, the proposals amended accordingly.

1.3 Consultation Period

1.3.1 The Public Consultation period lasted 4 weeks from its launch on Monday 11 October 2010 until Friday 5 November 2010 inclusive.

1.4 Consultation Boards

1.4.1 A total of 4 A1 colour presentation boards were prepared by the Consultant Team presenting an introduction to the project, analysis of how the village functions, a vision statement and concept plan and draft masterplan proposals through a range of text, plans and illustrative techniques.

1.4.2 A set of the presentation boards was on permanent display during the consultation period at Toome House, 55 Main Street, Toome with an accompanying mail box to facilitate the posting of feedback forms.

1.4.3 A digital PDF version of the boards was also made available to download from Antrim Borough Council’s website: http://www.antrim.gov.uk and GROW South Antrim’s website: http://www.growsouthantrim.com .

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TOOME VILLAGE MASTERPLAN 3 CONSULTATION FEEDBACK REPORT

1.5 Additional Consultation Activities

1.5.1 A total of 25 colour posters, outlining the Draft Village Masterplan and inviting feedback, were distributed to various public buildings throughout Toome (see Annex A).

1.5.2 A total of 1000 leaflets were delivered to residences within Toome and the surrounding environs.

1.5.3 A 2m x 1m PVC colour banner advertising the Draft Village Masterplan was displayed on the external railings at the entrance of Toome House (Main Street) throughout the consultation period.

1.5.4 A public consultation event was held during the evening of 18 October 2010.

1.6 Public Consultation Event

1.6.1 An open evening public consultation event, manned by members of the Consultant Team, was held on Monday 18 October 2010 at Toome House between 4pm and 9pm. Members of the Consultant Team were available throughout this session to field questions and explain the proposals contained within the Draft Masterplan. This open public consultation session was attended by 53 members of the local community and business sectors.

1.6.2 Photographs from the open evening public consultation event are included in Annex B.

1.7 Feedback Forms

1.7.1 A4 Feedback forms were available alongside the presentation boards at Toome House and could be downloaded directly from Antrim Borough Council’s website. These forms invited members of the public to answer a series of questions and provide comments on their likes and dislikes of the village, its future role as well as comments on the proposals contained within the Draft Masterplan (see Annex C).

1.7.2 Questions contained within the feedback form were intentionally open in nature to encourage respondents to elaborate on their opinions. The provision of a name and contact details were optional requirements of the form, however individual names have been excluded from this report.

1.8 Feedback Process

1.8.1 Members of the public were invited to post their completed feedback forms within the box provided at Toome House or directly to The Paul Hogarth Company by postal mail or via a unique email address ([email protected]).

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TOOME VILLAGE MASTERPLAN 4 CONSULTATION FEEDBACK REPORT

1.8.2 In addition to feedback forms, letters and emails were also submitted and accepted as consultation feedback.

1.8.3 Some members of the public chose to correspond directly with Antrim Borough Council regarding their feedback on the Draft Village Masterplan. This information was relayed back to the Consultant Team as appropriate.

1.9 Processing of Feedback Forms

1.9.1 All public consultation feedback received to date has been read, collated, numbered and filed by The Paul Hogarth Company. The Paul Hogarth Company has summarised these findings by way of this report to the Steering Group.

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2.0 PUBLIC CONSULTATION FEEDBACK

2.1 Quantity of Feedback

2.1.1 A total of 9 separate consultation responses were submitted by individuals. Of the total responses received 8 (89%) were by way of completed feedback forms and 1 (11%) via email.

2.1.2 Direct feedback was also received during the open evening public consultation session held on Monday 18 October 2010.

2.1.3 As at 17 November 2010, the digital version of the Draft Village Masterplan Presentation Boards was viewed/downloaded a total of 66 times from Antrim Borough Council’s website (http:// www.antrim.gov.uk ).

2.2 Late and/or Rejected Feedback

2.2.1 All consultation responses were received within the stipulated Public Consultation Period.

2.2.2 None of the feedback received during this period has been rejected for any reason.

2.3 Feedback Categories

2.3.1 From the 9 separate consultation responses received, a total of 59 issues were identified under the six questions (headings) raised within the feedback forms, with some duplication appearing between all six headings.

2.3.2 The list contained within Annex D breaks this total down according to the specific question they refer to within the feedback form. The digit preceding each issue represents the number of times it was raised under that respective heading.

2.3.3 These 59 issues are distributed between the six headings as follows;

No. of issues Heading (Questions asked on Feedback Form) % of total Rank raised What do you like about Toome? 8 14 4 What do you dislike about Toome? 6 10 5 What kind of place would you like Toome to be in future? 18 31 1 Masterplan proposals that will benefit Toome? 15 25 2 Masterplan proposals that will not benefit Toome? 2 3 6 Any other ideas or suggestions? 10 17 3 TOTAL 59 100

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TOOME VILLAGE MASTERPLAN 6 CONSULTATION FEEDBACK REPORT

2.3.4 These 59 issues translate into a total of 68 comments made which in turn can be broken down into the following broad subject areas;

Total Subject Areas % 20 Environmental Improvements 29 16 Need for improved services/facilities 24 12 Positive village attributes 18 11 Civic Pride and Wellbeing 16 6 Traffic and Parking 9 3 Others 4 68 100

2.3.5 The list contained within Annex E represents additional feedback received by the Consultant Team during the open evening public consultation event held on 18 October 2010.

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ANNEX A INVITATION POSTER

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ANNEX B PHOTOS FROM CONSULTATION EVENT

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ANNEX C FEEDBACK FORM

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ANNEX D FEEDBACK RECEIVED – CONSULTATION RESPONSES

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TOOME VILLAGE MASTERPLAN 14 CONSULTATION FEEDBACK REPORT

What do you like about Toome? Which Masterplan proposals do you think 3 Good community spirit will not benefit Toome and why? 2 Location 1 Thought proposals were very good ideas 1 Friendliness 1 Could Toome be a victim of its own success – 1 Safe at night attract wealthy, push up house prices? 1 Natural setting 1 Think community centre better based nearer 1 Quaintness GAA grounds – allow all club facilities they can 1 Canal Walk offer 1 Football club – facilities for youth

Additional comments raised What do you dislike about Toome? 1 Traditional signage (all similar format) 3 Lack of facilities – no gym/hall etc 1 Need more trees 1 Lack of leisure amenities – River/Lough 1 Bakery 1 Looks run down 1 Information centre on the Eels Fishery 1 PSNI site – eyesore 1 History on Roddy McCorley – where buried etc 1 Vandalism/boarded up housing 1 Toome’s location – Gateway to Lower Bann, 1 Large number of HGVs despite Bypass – use close to airports village as short cut 1 Activities – boating, fishing, cycling – how to connect to adjoining council initiatives 1 In there an even bigger masterplan? - Can What kind of place would you like Toome to Toome be the starting or end point? be in the future? 1 Stop off points for refreshments 1 Establish Toome as ‘Hub’ for tourist info 2 Vibrant 1 Welcoming 1 Quiet 1 Tidy 1 More environmental improvements 1 Bright 1 Traditional signage 1 Somewhere to be proud to be from 1 Diversity of businesses 1 Bicycle friendly 1 Development to suit its surroundings 1 More aesthetically pleasing 1 Place to provide for the community 1 Well maintained streets and roads 1 Appeal more to tourists 1 Improved environmental conditions 1 Reduced noise levels – HGVs 1 Improved pedestrian safety – eg at school

Which Masterplan proposals do you think will benefit Toome and why? 3 Marina – great resource to the village 2 Community Centre – great benefit 1 Development of the park at former PSNI site 1 All look good 1 Community Centre 1 Walkways – enhance attractiveness of village 1 Gym facilities 1 Redevelopment of GAA building – bring a focus point to village 1 New frontages to shops/buildings 1 Somewhere for youth to go 1 Development of facilities along river 1 Improved playing facilities 1 Improved parking arrangements 1 Traffic calming measures

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ANNEX E FEEDBACK RECEIVED – PUBLIC CONSULTATION EVENT

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Issues raised during the Public Consultation Event 2 Curb speeds – particularly Moneynick Road 1 Community recruitment drive at launch 1 Camogie winter facilities – hall – kids parties 1 Self catering cottages 1 Civic square on the river 1 Village has no beating heart 1 Signage – no control 1 Bridge off the spit/spurn 1 Lack of community facilities 1 Signage strategy 1 Land at roundabout derelict 1 Need to reflect full extent of property on Roguery Road 1 Proposed Marina – water flow implications may affect operation of Eels Fishery 1 Holding tanks at Eels Fishery would be in close proximity to new development 1 Hotel development 1 Caravan Parks 1 Formalised canoe/boat launch site 1 Too ambitious? 1 GAA Club – core of the village 1 Additional consultation night may be required 1 Bridge over to the Marina 1 Flies 1 Swimming Pool 1 Coordinated paint scheme for frontages 1 Cycling 1 Like the Marina development proposals 1 Not keen on proposed roundabout 1 Antisocial behaviour in park 1 Hotel sorely missed 1 Walkways can definitely be achieved 1 Old railway 1 Easter Monday – Toome Fair 1 Pathways 1 Play facilities – gap in age group – mid ground between baby and adolescent 1 Money being spent elsewhere

November 2010