Whitehead is located approximately 8km to the north east of Carrickfergus Town on the coast of Belfast Lough. The coastal settlement forms part of the historic landscape of the Borough and contains a wide variety of archaeological remains.

The Town originally developed around Castle Chichester, which is a scheduled Monument. The present built layout of the core of the settlement reflects parts of the earlier settlement, but much of Whitehead’s built character is derived from the settlement’s expansion from the late nineteenth century after the introduction of the rail network. In 2001 the Town had a population of 3,628.

Functioning largely as a dormitory settlement, local shopping facilities are mainly concentrated within an area bounded by Kings Road, Edward Road, Victoria Avenue and the railway line. The settlement has limited opportunities for development due mainly to infrastructure limitations, its natural setting and its rural character. The topography of the area has created a distinctive setting for the Town, which is bounded to the east by the sea with cliffs delineating the northern and southern boundaries.


Regional Policy Context


The Regional Development Strategy recognises the unique characteristics of various individual communities such as Whitehead and identifies that their particular characteristics and local needs should be catered for. It acknowledges that each community has a complimentary role in adding value to the life and vitality of the Belfast Metropolitan Area as a whole. The RDS seeks to build on the strengths of individual communities such as Whitehead and develop a metropolitan area, which is attractive to live in, providing a dynamic commercial and cultural heart to the region.

Designation WD 01  Settlement Development Limit Whitehead ex
	A Settlement Development Limit is designated for Whitehead as identified on Map No. 5a - Whitehead.

The Settlement Development Limit is designated to protect the Towns character and its hill setting adjacent to the Lough Shore, whilst providing sufficient opportunities for development including housing. The designated Settlement Development Limit will prevent urban encroachment into the countryside and protect the high quality landscapes to the north east of the Town.