To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what engagement she has had with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council to pursue parklets as an option for local hospitality in the area.

Officials from my Department have had discussions with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council about a number of proposed Covid-19 recovery initiatives. The feasibility of providing parklets in Ballyclare. Antrim and Glengormley was discussed and my officials have agreed to advise the Council as to the suitability of any proposals for parklets which the Council brings forward to facilitate their placement where appropriate. No firm proposals have yet been received from the Council.

My Department has issued guidance on parklets to Councils, and Business Improvement Districts, to set out the process to be used. This guidance makes it clear that the success of parklets, or other similar interventions, requires full engagement in advance with all stakeholders and the wider community to ensure full support for the interventions being proposed.

My officials will be happy to engage with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council on any proposals for parklets or other interventions to assist the hospitality industry, which the Council wishes to bring forward.