A meeting with the new owners of Barry’s Amusements is being sought to clarify plans for the iconic attraction's future, East Derry MLA Cara Hunter has said.
It has been reported Barry's has been taken over by property developer Michael Herbert.
The purchasing of the site has led to widespread concerns of retaining the legacy of Barry's Amusements in Portrush in the face of potential demolition for property development.
Residents are also raising deep concerns of being priced out of the popular tourist town, a problem which will be exasperated by any planned luxury apartments replacing the amusements.
Ms Hunter has previously written to the Department for Communities to express concerns around rising house prices on the North Coast.
The East Derry SDLP woman said: “While it is welcome news a buyer for the Barry’s site has been found I understand there will be concern among the local community about plans for the area going forward.
"While any investment in the area will have benefits, I understand Barry’s is a place held dear in the hearts of many in the North Coast and across the entire North. Being from Portrush myself, I have my own fond memories.
“I will be seeking a meeting with representatives of the Herberts’ Group to find out how they plan to develop the site and will be encouraging them to consider the history of the site and its significance to the local population when drawing up their development plans.
"The public have been clear that they want to keep Barry’s in some shape or form and I would hope the new owners will take this into consideration.
"There is an opportunity to develop a modern family entertainment complex on this site. There are also concerns around the building of more expensive apartments in this area, local people already feel they are being priced out of Portrush and I hope this too will be considered.
“I am glad this site will no longer lay dormant. Barry’s closure was a sad occasion for many people and I hope this development will contribute to the regeneration of Portrush and the wider North Coast.”
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