Public spaces included in plan for 'retirement village' outside Larne

A planning application for the project at the site of Cairndhu House was submitted at the end of April.

The proposed development includes a mix of five retirement cottages, 10 bespoke retirement apartments for assisted and independent living, and 17 converted living units within Cairndhu House, as well as a nursing facility with palliative care space.

It is understood the project will represent an investment of around £20-25million, according to Manor Architects.

The Moneymore-based firm hosted a public consultation on the plans in May 2018.

Architect and Director of Manor Architects, Johann Muldoon MBE said: "This master planning project is one of the most complex conservation projects in Northern Ireland. The continual adaption and review of our conservation strategy helped guide us through the process to ensure the heritage was above all protected and preserved, whilst ensuring an economically viable, sustainable scheme and heritage asset.

"This proposal would see the delivery of a first-of-its-kind retirement and care facility for independent living, assistance, and care."

It would also see the inclusion of public rooms for interpretive and historic exhibits, Johann added.

This would be supported by the retention of public pathways around the site leading to the Causeway Coastal Route, linking Carnfunnock Country Park and the golf course.

The site is owned by brothers Des and Leon Loughran from Co Tyrone, who also own a quarry business.

Cairndhu House was originally built as a summer residence in 1875.

In 1918, Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon bought the property and during World War II it was used as a war hospital.

The house was donated to the health authority in 1947 and turned into a convalescent home, which it remained until its closure in 1986.

In 2015, the grounds were used to film scenes for the sci-fi movie Morgan, produced by legendary filmmaker Ridley Scott.