An historic Templepatrick building, facing demolition, has been saved by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency.

The Templepatrick Railway Stations has been granted a Building Preservation Notice by the Environment Minister, Sammy Wilson.

Preservation Notices first came into force in 2003 to protect notable buildings under the threat of demolition or alteration. The notices are often referred to as 'spot listing'.

The railway station will now be protected for up to six months while agency officials conduct surveys and engage in consultation on the future of the structure.

Minister Wilson said: "We have to look forward. We must plan for our future. But we must also not ignore what has shaped us. Our built heritage provides a tangible connection to our shared past and we should protect its best features.

-- Advertisement --

"I commend the NIEA for taking action to save these buildings," added Mr Wilson.

The station, designed by acclaimed architect John Lanyon, was built in Victorian times and has remained relatively well preserved.

The building is unusual because of its large stone undercroft. It has since been threatened by a planning application.

To qualify for protection under the 2003 Planning Order, which provides temporary listed status, buildings must satisfy two elements.

They must be of special architectural and historic interest or be in danger of demolition or alteration. These include alterations that would compromise the character of the structure.

Special interest tests are carried out by the Environment Agency's Built Heritage Directorate.

After six months of detailed investigation, a decision will be made as to whether a building should be granted permanent listing.

Consultation on this matter will be sough with the Historic Buildings Council and local authorities.

(PR/JM)