Case approved for new entrance to Allen Park

ANTRIM and Newtownabbey Borough Council has approved a Business Case to redesign and resurface the entrance and driveway at Allen Park.

The issue was discussed at a behind-closed-doors sitting of the Operations Committee in April.

The minutes said: “The driveway providing access to the Allen Park car park had significantly deteriorated over time, worsened by increased traffic flow and heavy machinery associated with the golf course.

“Additionally, the project presented an opportunity to redesign the entrance, addressing the current layout issues that contributed to congestion on Randalstown Road.

“The existing design, combined with rising visitor numbers, creates a bottleneck that posed safety concerns.

“As outlined in the circulated Business Case, several options were assessed, with Option 3 identified as the preferred solution.

“This option involved major realignment and widening of the driveway.

“The improvements were expected to enhance the facility’s entrance, optimize traffic flow, and improve overall customer experience.

“The project would be funded through the Council's Car Park Improvement Programme.

“As the framework for car park resurfacing had already been approved, the approval of this Business Case would serve as the investment decision, allowing the works to commence in early summer 2025.”

The recommendation was proposed by Alderman John Smyth of the DUP and seconded by party colleague Alderman Linda Clarke.

All costs were redacted.