Home / Business and Economy / 80s Mall Demolished for New Homes
80s Mall Demolished for New Homes
11 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Castle Mall in Antrim will be partially demolished for housing.
- The £7 million project will create 39 new social homes.
- Over half of the mall's retail units were vacant.
Castle Mall in Antrim, once a bustling hub in the 1980s, is undergoing a significant £7 million redevelopment. The plan involves the partial demolition of the shopping centre to create 39 new social housing units. This decision comes as a substantial portion of the mall's retail spaces have become vacant, with over half standing empty.
The project aims to revitalize the town centre by introducing much-needed housing and increasing footfall. Future residents will benefit from improved public transport links and incentives for sustainable travel, including travel cards and bicycle vouchers. The design of the new apartment blocks and terrace dwellings is expected to enhance the character of the Conservation Area.
Despite some concerns about traffic and parking, planning officers deemed the proposal acceptable, highlighting the urgent need for social housing in Antrim. Housing Executive figures indicate a demand for 311 new social homes between 2024 and 2029, with hundreds of households experiencing housing stress. The redevelopment is seen as a crucial step in providing these homes.
