St. Patrick's Barrack's veteran goes back '˜on parade' as future of site is explored
On site tours have taken place to start the process to guide the future development of the Barracks.
Members of the public had their chance to see round the former barracks and submit their initial comments on the future of this major asset, being first briefed and then walked around the whole site by members of the consultancy team.
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Hide AdBut there was one visitor finding the experience especially poignant, a former Royal Ulster Rifles serviceman, Jim Peters, who comes from Broughshane.
He previously enjoyed more than two decades serving in St. Patrick’s Barracks – even meeting his wife nearby.
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council welcomed the fact that overall attendance at the ‘Drop-in’ sessions was good, especially so as most seemed to have taken the guided tours on offer.
The event allowed the local community to have their initial say with residents, business owners, community groups and anyone with an interest able to contribute their opinions and expectations.
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Hide AdThe comments received will be collated over the next week and will help inform the consultants about options for development and preferred uses. This will then be used to put forward proposals which will be subject to a full public consultation.
The St Patrick’s Barracks site was acquired by the Department for Social Development (DSD) from the Office of the First and Deputy First Minister in September 2015. Since then DSD has been progressing the development with the support of Council as a strategic partner.