Council Committee Rejects “Holiday Resort” Status for Coleraine and Ballymoney

The committee met this evening and recommended that the two towns not be granted holiday resort status under the Shops (Sunday Trading etc.) (Northern Ireland) Order 1997.

Had the request been approved, it would have allowed large shops to extend their Sunday trading hours to 18 occasions per year.

The recommendation will now go to full council for ratification on Tuesday, 6 May 2025.

Public Consultation & Response

The request prompted a public consultation that attracted widespread media attention—much of it focused on the idea of classifying Coleraine and Ballymoney as holiday resorts. This suggestion was met with some public scepticism, with one respondent describing the notion as “frankly ridiculous.”

While some submissions supported extended Sunday trading—citing outdated laws, shopper convenience, and potential economic benefits—the committee reported that the majority of responses from residents, local retailers, and trade bodies were opposed.

Concerns were primarily centred on the potential impact on small and independent businesses, employee wellbeing, and the loss of family time.

Councillor Lee Kane acknowledged it was unfortunate that the only available legislative route to consider changes to Sunday trading hours was through the “holiday resort” designation. He agreed with public sentiment that, while both towns are highly valued, they are not realistically holiday destinations.

Cllr Kane also expressed disappointment that the level of public response was lower than expected given the media interest. However, he noted that many of the comments received were constructive—including those which suggested that spreading out Sunday trading hours could ease congestion during the current 1pm to 6pm trading window.

Input From Business Groups

The councillor also praised the input from local business organisations including Causeway Chamber, Retail NI, Coleraine BID, and particularly Ballymoney Chamber. Their engagement was described as especially helpful in understanding the wider economic implications of the proposal.

Ballymoney Chamber was singled out for its efforts to support the town’s recovery following the pandemic, and for championing its strong base of family-run, independent businesses. The town has also earned the title of Northern Ireland High Street of the Year two years in a row—something Councillor Kane said they were proud to highlight at every opportunity.

“No Essential Need”

Alderman Mark Fielding said:
"We are not in favour of extending Sunday opening hours to the large stores for the various reasons expressed by constituents. There is no essential need for large stores to open longer than they currently do on a Sunday. This is for the sole benefit of the large store. Smaller and independent shops, and those who value family time on a Sunday, also share this view. Therefore, we believe there should be no change to the current status."