Coast Road song has X-Factor for council

The local authority was approached by songwriters Bill Allen and Paul McNeilly, who have penned a number of tracks for a new album being recorded by Larne singing sensation, Zolene Mayberry.

One of the songs is entitled The Antrim Coast Road, and has already attracted plays on Irish radio stations in the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, as well as local stations such as Downtown, U105 and Radio Ulster.

And Mr Allen has asked the council to consider using the song as part of a promotional DVD or CD to boost tourism in the area.

A recording of the track was played to councillors at the latest monthly meeting in Smiley Buildings and received a very warm reception.

Alderman Roy Beggs praised the song as “very easy on the ears and pleasant to listen to”, while Ald Jack McKee said: “It is a very nice song and we should put it on the agenda to see if it can be used as in future.”

Cllr Maureen Morrow added: “I know some coach companies are considering travelling up the M2 towards the Causeway Coast rather than driving up the Antrim Coast Road. This song would be a good way to promote our area.”

The council agreed to develop a promotional DVD or CD showcasing the borough and to consider including Zolene’s song as part of it.