Causeway Coast and Glens Local Action Group marks completion of signature project at Portaneevy
Tue, August 03, 2021
Causeway Coast and Glens Local Action Group (LAG) has marked the completion of one of its signature Co-Operation Projects funded through the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.
The development work to enhance the tourist facilities at Portaneevy Viewing Point outside Ballintoy included detailed landscape work and the construction of two spectacular viewing platforms.
The LAG approved over £400,000 of Rural Development funds to the project which was officially opened by the Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Edwin Poots on Wednesday 28th July 2021.
The project at Portaneevy is one of five Co-Operation Projects funded by the LAG across Causeway Coast and Glens. Others include improvements to River Bann access for recreation, enhancements to the International Appalachian Trail for walking, improved access and facilities at local beaches and a new ‘road-trip’ route through some of the lesser-known rural areas of the Borough.
The LAG’s total investment towards these important local projects exceeds £950,000.
LAG Chairperson, Councillor Dermot Nicholl said: “Since the formation of the LAG in 2014 we have delivered almost £8m in funding to local rural areas through the Rural Development Programme. This project was funded under the Co-operation scheme and I would like to say how delighted we are with the completed works
“The improved viewing deck provides scenic vistas overlooking Carrick-a-Rede and on clear days visitors will be able to see as far as Argyll and Bute in Scotland
“Facilities such as this can only serve to increase the popularity of our coastal area and I pay tribute to our LAG for having the vision and dedication to deliver this magnificent facility.
“I would also like to express my thanks to Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council for their support to deliver this Project and indeed, throughout the Rural Development Programme in general.”
