Antrim Coast & Glens AONB

ABOUT

The Antrim Coast & Glens AONB was designated as an AONB in 1988 and includes Rathlin Island, the world-famous Glens of Antrim and the spectacular coastline from Ballycastle to Larne.

The area is dominated by the Antrim Plateau rising to over 500m and cut by fast flowing rivers to form a series of unique and picturesque post-glacial glens running east and north-east towards the sea. An area of contrasts, the AONB includes Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island, Rathlin Island: home to internationally important wildlife, gentle bays and valleys, dramatic headlands, farmland and the wild open expanse of moorland on the plateau. Added to this, the area has a long settlement and maritime history with many important archaeological sites, listed buildings, historic monuments and conservation areas.

MANAGEMENT FORUM

The Antrim Coast and Glens 2020-2030 AONB Management Plan and 2021-2025 Action Plan are overseen and guided by a Management Forum comprising representatives from local government (both elected members & officials), heritage and conservation organisations, community organisations, farming sector representatives, government departments and members of the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust Board.

ONGOING MANAGEMENT & ACTIONS

The 2021-2025 Action Plan for the Antrim Coast & Glen AONB has five key aims:

1. To conserve its landscape character.
2. Protect its natural and historic environment.
3. Promote sustainable recreation and community well-being.
4. Increase pride in and awareness of the area’s heritage and culture.
5. Nurture community-driven action and a partnership approach.

These aims are delivered through wide-ranging actions undertaken by CCGHT and a broad group of partners.

PROJECTS

Projects across all of the Special Areas represent the ongoing impact of our management and action plans.  They represent our commitment to protecting and enhancing heritage. Diverse, interactive and educational, many projects give the opportunity to connect with heritage, and volunteer when opportunity arises.

There are several projects, many of which are with thanks to funders, or they are delivered with key partners.

VOLUNTEERING

We welcome a range of regular and ad hoc volunteers, grateful for any time committed, to assist in the delivery of initiatives aimed at conserving and enhancing the Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and World Heritage Site. Volunteering offers everyone an opportunity to contribute to a real and visible difference to the built, natural, and cultural heritage of the area for the benefit of all.

A range of activities, events and roles, indoor and outdoor gives volunteers a chance to learn new skills, meet like-minded people, provide connection, and foster good wellbeing.

Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust is committed to offering equal opportunities and is keen to recruit volunteers across all sections of the community, throughout the year.