Coastal Protection Policy Area - Purpose and Scope

The aim of this policy is to protect, and where possible, enhance the coastal area of our Borough. This aim has taken account of and is consistent with the provisions of the SPPS. The coast of our Borough abuts Belfast Lough and includes the land, intertidal zone and the sea, and is approximately 7.5km in length. This coast is classified as the 'Developed Coast' and is located adjacent to the M5 Motorway and A2 Shore Road, Newtownabbey. The shoreline is characterised by a series of mudflats, shell dominated banks and artificial lagoons. The coastal area is a biologically diverse ecosystem and an important natural heritage asset that regularly supports significant numbers of wintering birds and waders. This importance is recognised by the multiple international and national environmental designations applying to Belfast Lough, which is a Ramsar site, SPA and an ASSI. The Council recognises the importance of this coastal area and will therefore seek to protect and enhance this zone. The detailed boundary of the Belfast Lough Coastal Policy Area will be designated in the Local Policies Plan.