What would make Larne a better town – according to readers

A recent announcement on funding for the town sparked a broader discussion on social media about the amenities and features residents would most like to see.

Many calls for action focused on the town centre, including the former Dunnes Stores building on Main Street, which has lain empty since 2019.

Some hope to see the retailer return to the town, while others suggested the building could be repurposed.

Business rates and the dwindling numbers of free car parking spaces were also popular talking points for many residents.

Meanwhile, a look into the Larne Times archives revealed some recurring themes that residents would like addressed.

Here are 10 suggestions that Larne locals believe would make the town even better – do you have any to add to the list?

1. Bring back Dunnes or repurpose the building

Dunnes Stores has been sorely missed in the town since leaving its Main Street premises in 2019, with the property having lain vacant since. Large numbers of residents said they would love to see the well-loved brand return, while others have suggested the building could be repurposed into an indoor market, an arcade, or as another retail venture. Photo: Google maps

2. Big name brands in the town centre

While there are concerns over the impact of national retailers on smaller, local businesses, some residents suggested that the presence of established names like Primark, Sports Direct, or M&S could benefit the town centre by boosting overall footfall. Many also called for the return of high street stores that have departed Larne in recent years, such as New Look. One local person said: “They could put a Primark in [the old Dunnes building] and I believe it would do well.” Photo: Google maps

3. Dunluce Street

Vacancy and dereliction were further issues highlighted by local people, with Dunluce Street an area that “definitely needs attention”, according to one resident. Proposals for a new £3.2m hotel at the end of the street reignited hopes for imminent regeneration of the area, but as of February this year, the plans were scrapped to make way for a residential development. Photo: Google maps

4. More dining out and entertainment options

Discussions on how to boost Larne’s hospitality offering and night-time economy are ongoing, particularly post-Covid. Earlier this year, an independent report commissioned by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council recommended more leisure services such as restaurants and bars, with incentives such as rent-free periods for uptake of vacant units. Several residents said they would welcome more restaurants in the town, while others want more indoor entertainment venues for children and teens. One said: “We have to leave town to take the kids out.” Photo: Bridgesward from Pixabay

5. Tackle vacant properties

The issue of vacant properties in the town centre is one that has been raised repeatedly as a priority for traders and shoppers alike. In 2021, the town centre had 282 commercial units; of these, 63 were vacant and five derelict. Photo: Google maps

6. Utilise space at Broadway

A market at Broadway was another item on the wish list, with one resident suggesting: “Turn [Larne] into a market town, cover Broadway and allow market traders to use the Main Street as well.” Photo: Google maps

7. More affordable housing

One feature many residents picked up on is Larne’s need for more affordable social housing, with some saying it should be the “main priority”. Earlier this month, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive predicted that 856 new social housing properties will be needed in Mid and East Antrim by 2027, with 75 of these in Larne town, 18 in Carnlough, and four in Glenarm. Photo: Unsplash

8. Pedestrianisation of Main Street

Some residents called for the pedestrianisation of Main Street and the addition of further outdoor seating along the town centre thoroughfare. Photo: Google maps

9. Lower business rates

Lower non-domestic rates were another priority, with many believing they are key to drawing new businesses into Larne. One local business owner whose rates went up steeply this year said: “It’s difficult enough trying to provide a professional stable service to our customers without this. Why would any business want to start a new venture in Larne?” Photo: Google maps

10. Free car parking

Dwindling numbers of free car parking spaces in Larne town centre were another bone of contention for many residents, particularly after the borough council extended parking charges to the Circular Road East Car Park and Exchange Road Car Park during the summer. One resident commented: “No free car parking for people who work in the town and other people – it’s a disgrace. People won’t want to come to Larne.” Photo: Google maps

Source: Northen Ireland World