In Portrush, the site of Water World has remained derelict for over a decade, costing the local council rates paid by the taxpayers of our borough. Now, our council proposes selling this land—an area that’s landlocked and presents limited commercial use. We believe this is a missed opportunity for developing much-needed car parking space in our town, as highlighted by a survey conducted last year.

Our town desperately needs additional parking options. A year ago, a consultation with local businesses reaffirmed that the most urgent need was for car parking space. However, despite this clear feedback, our council is pressing ahead with plans to offload the site. Instead of a short-sighted sale, we should seize the opportunity to transform this space.

Removing the existing structure could immediately make way for a more accessible car park, which can eventually evolve into a multi-story facility as funds permit. Not only will this address the town's pressing parking shortages, it also offers a path to profitability, returning funds to our local system and enhancing our community’s infrastructure.

By retaining this property and converting it into parking, we alleviate ongoing congestion and provide local businesses and residents with the practical solution they need, stimulating economic growth and ensuring a sustainable future.

We urge the council to reconsider their decision and prioritise the development of car parking on the Water World site. Let’s make this valuable land work for everyone in Portrush.

Please sign this petition to secure urgently needed parking space for our community and invest wisely in Portrush’s future.