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5 July 2000

SAM FOSTER HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF COASTAL ATTRACTIONS

Mr Sam Foster, Minister for the Environment, today highlighted the attractions of coastal facilities both for local communities and visitors alike.

The Minister made his comments during a visit to Glenarm to officially open the new Coastal path and picnic area located on the main road to Larne. He said: " I commend Larne Borough Council for the effort it has made in providing this most useful amenity which will cater for the needs of the local community and the many visitors from elsewhere in Northern Ireland and abroad.

"I am particularly pleased that the facility is fully suited for use by people with disabilities. It is important that all members of the community can enjoy what the Council has created here."

The Minister concluded: "Northern Ireland is fortunate to have so many beautiful areas for us to enjoy. Initiatives such as this show that partnership between Government and local Councils will benefit us all and help us enjoy our unique countryside."

The path and associated facilities including picnic area and car parking have been created by Larne Borough Council with funding provided by Environment and Heritage Service of the Department of the Environment. The facility allows for public enjoyment of this stretch of coastline situated within the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The Minister concluded his visit by attending a reception to mark the opening at the nearby Drumnagreagh Hotel.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

  1. The Opening of the Glenarm Coastal path will be held at 11.30am on Wednesday 5 July 2000. The path and picnic area are located on the Larne Road, approximately 2 miles south of Glenarm.
  2. The scheme was carried out by Larne Borough Council with funding from the Environment and Heritage Service of the Department of the Environment under the provisions of the Access to the Countryside (NI) Order 1983.
  3. The event will be attended by the Mayor of Larne Borough Council, Councillor David Fleck, and Mr Colm McGarry, Chief Executive of the Council.
  4. The event concludes with a reception organised by the Council at the Drumnagreagh Hotel, Glenarm.