Northern Area Plan 2016
Moyle District: Church bay

The settlement at Church Bay, Rathlin Island, has developed around the harbour which is at the heart of the Rathlin community. Most residents live either within Church Bay or within 2.5 kilometres of the harbour.

Church Bay facilities include the Manor House Guesthouse which is owned by the National Trust, Bruce’s public house and restaurant, and a shop. The former boathouse is now a tourist information centre as well as providing information about the history of Rathlin. Access to health care, postal and fire services is provided at the Manor House. Church Bay is designated a Hamlet in the Settlement Hierarchy in Volume 1 of the Plan.

The development limit as defined will facilitate further development including any need for additional housing for permanent residents, and the appropriate modest expansion of tourist accommodation. Any development will be required to be in character with the existing built form in terms of density, height and design.