Council permits use of car park for new Christmas attractions

The late item on Monday evening’s meeting was approved after assurances were sought that the local authority would be “indemnified” and that signposting would be put in place for alternative car parking.

Work began at the end of last week on the erection of a marquee to contain the attraction, which will run from 29 October until 7 January.

The initiative follows an approach to Council by the proprietor of the Harbour Point, who has indicated that 66 spaces will be available in his own car park as a substitute for any loss in the harbour car park.

Councillor David Hilditch MLA told the Antrim Street chamber that he and party colleague Councillor Billy Ashe had met recently with Carrick Traders’ Association to discuss ideas for the “betterment” of the town centre and subsequent to this the ice rink has been proposed by one of the group’s members.

He added that the project would be at no cost to the council and it is one that seems to have been well received within the community.

Mr Ashe added his belief too that it will be a “success” throughout the festive season.

Describing the location a “precarious” one for a marquee in winter, Alderman Jim Brown asked for clarification that council would be “indemnified”.

Mr Ashe replied that in granting permission “due diligence” from council was expected.

Councillor Stewart Dickson asked that signposting be put in place advising of the substitute car parking, which he hoped all-day users would avail of to free space for visitors to the ice rink.

Mr Hilditch also revealed that a Christmas market and village are to be constructed in another part of the car park and asked for this to be accepted too.