Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has cancelled plans to transform Mossley Mill Civic Centre in Newtownabbey into a larger visitor attraction. The council's Community Development Committee reviewed an outline business case last month and found the proposals did not offer value for money.

The business case examined the need for development, options for the site, and capital and revenue costs. Councillors agreed the strategic case could not be made and recommended removing the project from the capital list.

Plans had called for rebranding the centre as Mossley Mill Civic, Cultural and Heritage Centre. Proposed additions included a glazed entrance extension with a living roof, exterior dining on two levels, new gallery and exhibition space, hospitality venues, a function and conference hall with kitchen, tourist information, and upgraded registration facilities.

Threemilewater DUP Alderman Stephen Ross proposed accepting the recommendation to halt the project. Macedon Sinn Fein Councillor Taylor McGrann seconded the motion.

The council spent around £200,000 at Mossley Mill in 2023 and 2024. In February 2024, a reconfigured museum reopened there with displays in main circulation spaces and new soft furnishings throughout central areas.

Separately, the council discussed the lease of Antrim Civic Centre and potential staff relocation to Mossley Mill at a full council meeting last month. No public minutes were released from that session. Antrim DUP Alderman John Smyth objected to the item.