Binevenagh AONB

ABOUT

Binevenagh AONB was designated in 2006. This is a re-designation and extension of the area previously designated in 1966 as the North Derry AONB. The distinctive headland of Binevenagh with its dramatic cliffs marks the western limit of the Antrim basalt plateau. From the Gortmore viewpoint there are spectacular panoramic views of Magilligan and Inishowen, Islay and Jura in Scotland, and Mussenden Temple and Martello Tower in the distance.

The distinctive headland of Binevenagh with its dramatic cliffs marks the western limit of the Antrim basalt plateau. From here there are spectacular panoramic views of Magilligan, Inishowen and of Islay and Jura in Scotland. The AONB includes some of the finest beaches and dune systems in Ireland together with the small seaside resort of Castlerock. The flat alluvial plain near Lough Foyle is important for arable farming whereas the upland area, characterised by open moor land and forestry, is more suited to sheep farming.

In addition, Binevenagh AONB has a colourful cultural and an outstanding built and archaeological heritage which includes many listed buildings and scheduled monuments. Visitors have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of recreational activity including walking, cycling, swimming, orienteering, angling and gliding. This, together with the easy access by road, rail, air and sea, has helped to establish Binevenagh AONB as one of Northern Ireland’s most popular visitor destinations.

MANAGEMENT FORUM

In 2020 the Landscape Partnership was launched, a £3.4 million Heritage Lottery Funded project with the vision to  “Celebrate and connect local people with their unique landscape and heritage to build sustainable and resilient communities.” Projects over the five years of the landscape partnership are focused around the themes of the natural environment, defense and historic environment, outdoor recreation and the local community.

Along with the Heritage Lottery fund, the project is match funded by key project partners such as the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, The National Trust, Loughs Agency, NIEA and the Department for Communities Historic Environment Division.

In order to achieve the vision outlined above the Landscape Partnership has three core aims:

1) Improve management and resilience of the special landscape, habitats and
species of the project area.
2) Highlight and promote the vital role the landscape has played and continues to play in defence heritage on a global and national stage from the Napoleonic Period, through WWI, WWII, the Cold War to the present day.
3) Establish the area as a top destination in the UK and Ireland to participate in inclusive and sustainable land, sea and air based outdoor activities which
complement and add value to the area’s unique heritage assets and local
community.
4) Support and deliver community led heritage initiatives which provide education and training opportunities, and which enhance access to, and interpretation of the area’s natural, built and cultural heritage.

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.