Glenarm seafront camper van site proposed after ‘spike’ in demand last year

The council’s Direct Services Committee has been told that up to 30 camper vans could be accommodated per night at the former fish factory site.

There was concern last year when 55 camper vans flooded a carpark in the coastal village during one weekend night in August. Click here

The committee heard that this “spike” led to complaints from Glenarm residents amid fears over the spread of Covid. The council also received complaints from residents over congestion and the carparks at Glenarm Marina being “unavailable” to locals or visitors.

Representatives have been advised that the former fish factory site which was gutted in a fire has been “demolished and the site levelled”.

The committee was told: “Discussions have taken place as to how this area can be managed better leading to the summer time, particularly with the use of camper vans.

Work is being progressed to see how access to the site and payment could be managed. Height restriction may be placed in the carpark between Glenarm Rowing Club and the marina building to ensure camper vans park in the “designated site”. A charge of £10 per night has been suggested.

Commenting on the development, Coast Road Ulster Unionist Councillor Maureen Morrow said: “I am really glad to see this is being progressed and hopefully get it up and running before peak season.”

Braid DUP Councillor Beth Adger remarked : “This time last year, a lot of councillors got offended about camper vans being there.”

She went on to say she hoped to see “plenty of camper vans down about Glenarm bringing trade into it.”

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter

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