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Randalstown first grew up around the iron mill that existed on the east bank of the river to the north of the present town bridge. Originally called An Dun Mor, it was renamed Randalstown after the 2nd Earl and 1st Marquis of Antrim Randal MacDonnell. The fortune of the town depended on the success of the various industries established on the east bank of the river, one of these being the linen factory- Old Bleach Linen Company established in Randalstown in 1864. This company's move to the town was influenced by three factors.
- The
water from the River Maine
- The
strong tradition of cottage
weaving
in the area
- The
American Civil War giving
a boost to the linen industry.
Old Bleach is now regarded as one of the most efficient units in what has become Coats Viyella- the largest textile group in Europe thanks in large to the flexibility and expertise of the workforce. The company remains the biggest employee in the area as it has been for nearly a century and a half.
ARCHES Association
Randalstown ARCHES Association (Assisting Randalstown Community towards Harmony and Economic Success) was formed in 1995. A Board of Directors of 12 members which are elected at the Annual General Meeting, are the executive body which implements the plans set out in ARCHES' Strategy Document
ARCHES first project was the illumination of the Viaduct, which remains one of the most visually attractive sights in the province. In 1996 the town was designated as a Conservation Area, which was achieved in conjunction with Randalstown Historical Society and D.O.E. Planning Service.
In addition there are various on-going projects. Each year ARCHES and the Chamber of Trade cooperates to organise the Randalstown ARCHES festival in June and the Christmas Lights Ceremony at the end of November, both of which aim to involve and entertain all people in the community.
For more information on the services, accommodation and businesses available in Randalstown contact
Randalstown Local Information Office & Post Office
15 - 19 Main Street
Randalstown
Tel: 02894 47 22 42
Fax: 02894 47 96 95
E-Mail: randalstown.info@ntlworld.com
Opening Hours Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 9am - 5.30pm Wed, Sat 9am - 7.30pm
Plans for the future
The Community Property Development Scheme.
Involves the purchase and development of town centre property as retail units, accommodation and community space
Sports facilities
ARCHES are supporting Antrim Borough Council in their bid to secure a suitable location for improved sports provision in the town.
Social Development
ARCHES plan to initiate a programme in conjunction with statutory bodies to improve the quality of life for residents of the area and to enhance community relations.
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