Andrew Balfour, Local Democracy Reporter
Plans for a new maternity support hub in Coleraine has been received by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.
Council’s planning portal recently received the planning application to convert a former retail unit, at 9 Queen Street, to a specialist maternity and postnatal hub, and community space.
An accompanying Design and Access Statement said the proposed hub will complement surrounding town centre activities and “introduces a community-focused service promoting connection, education, health and wellbeing”.
“The proposal involves the change of use of one existing single-storey unit to accommodate a community hub for maternity and postnatal support, including consultation, education and community-based activities,” the statement added.
“No extension or additional floorspace is proposed, and the principal community and educational space occupies the front of the building and benefits from direct access from Queen Street.
“The proposal maintains an active frontage onto Queen Street and the architectural character, materials and visual appearance of the building will remain unchanged, ensuring the proposal preserves the character of the area.
“The proposal represents the reuse of an existing town centre building and therefore promotes sustainable development principles. Its central location encourages walking and use of public transport and reduces reliance on private car journeys.
“The proposal supports economic sustainability through investment and employment, social sustainability through the provision of maternal and postnatal support, and environmental sustainability through the reuse of an existing building stock.”
Picture: An artist’s impression of the proposed maternity hub at 9 Queen Street in Coleraine.
