Northern Ireland

Barry's Amusements will not reopen after site was sold, former owners confirm

Barry's Amusements in Portrush has been sold.Picture by Colm Lenaghan, Pacemaker
Barry's Amusements in Portrush has been sold.Picture by Colm Lenaghan, Pacemaker Barry's Amusements in Portrush has been sold.Picture by Colm Lenaghan, Pacemaker

BARRY'S Amusements in Co Antrim will close after its site was sold, its former owners have confirmed.

The Trufelli family, who have owned the Portrush business since it opened in 1926, thanked their employees "for their patience and understanding" during the sale.

The BBC reported last month that the site had been sold to property developer Michael Herbert - one of the north's richest businessmen.

The prime spot on Eglinton Street, overlooking Portrush's West Strand beach, is expected to be used for housing.

Barry's has been a popular attraction on the north coast for decades.

In a statement released today, Barry's former owners, the Trufelli family, confirmed the sale.

It is understood the site was sold for above the £2.75 million asking price.

"The Trufelli family wish to confirm that the Barry’s property has been sold and the business will now close," the statement read.

"We wish to thank all our loyal full-time and seasonal employees for their patience and understanding during the sale process, and for the key role they played in making Barry's such a special place for the generations of people who visited us over the years.

"As a family, we understand what a special place Barry's held in many peoples' hearts for almost a century.

"We hope you cherish your memories as much as we do."

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council voted last year not to issue a Building Preservation Notice for Barry's.