Fears over 'structural integrity' of historic building

An emergency road closure has been put in place in Ballycastle, County Antrim, over fears for the "structural integrity" of a historic building.

It was announced on Thursday that an area around the site of the former Antrim Arms Hotel has been partially cordoned off.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said that a section of Fairhill Street will be temporarily closed to traffic and pedestrians as "a precautionary measure in the interests of public safety”.

The local authority said the decision was made in conjunction with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) after concerns were raised over the building.

Originally built in the 18th Century, the former three-storey hotel is a local landmark in the seaside town centre, situated near the town's Diamond Street.

Speaking to BBC News NI, local DUP councillor Bill Kennedy said that concerns were first raised at a council meeting over the building.

He said that "safety is paramount" and that closing an area around the site is a precautionary measure.

"Ballycastle is a historic town and many of its buildings are obviously very old," he told BBC News NI.

"Many buildings in the town are in desperate need of investment and, sadly, with age comes a number of issues."

Kennedy said he was not sure how long the road closure would be in place for, but stressed that it is vital that checks are carried out on the building to ensure the surrounding area is safe for both pedestrians and motorists.

Sinn Féin councillor Cara McShane said the road closure will “inconvenience a lot of people” due to its location, and that it is a shame it has had to come to this.

She told BBC News NI there are a number of businesses and homes in the area, adding that road is the main access for people visiting Ballycastle Forest.

“Many people have been in contact with me about the building for a while now because it is a listed building and it is also an iconic part of Ballycastle town centre, which many people hold dear to their hearts," she said.

“It really is said to see that it has been allowed to become this eye-sore and deteriorate over the years."

McShane said that both she and other councillors are working with a number of stakeholders in relation to the building, and she is hopeful a solution can be found.