The iconic Glens of Antrim are to be the focus of a new project thanks to the £1.4million grant, which was awarded to the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust (CCGHT) through HLF’s Landscape Partnership programme.
Announcing this latest investment, HLF Chief Executive, Carole Souter, said: ““We […] recognise that our landscapes are famous for their beauty throughout the world, and along with our cultural and built heritage, give Northern Ireland its unique tourist offering. So it is wonderful to be able to commit a further £1.4million through the programme to the Heart of the Glens. They have great plans and I’m excited to see what they deliver over the next five years. We are confident there will be huge benefits for both the landscape and the local communities who live and work there.”
The Glens of Antrim consist of nine impressive glens on the Antrim Coast which run down to the dramatic cliffs, headlands and bays of the rocky North Channel coastline. The area is one of high scenic value, important habitats and vigorous community life. It is a popular tourist destination thanks to its coast road, distinctive farmsteads known as Clachans and traditional field patterns. The four coastal villages of Glenarm, Cushendall, Cushendun and Carnlough alongside the town of Ballycastle, all designated Conservation Areas, are home to the majority of the population of the glens and each has its own distinct relationship with the glens.
A collection of individual projects will run across the five year programme including activities to support land owners with habitat surveys; help to increase wildlife and develop a plan for the long-term management of the area. The local community will be able to showcase their unique landscape by taking part in a diverse range of events and activities such as heritage festivals, community photography schemes and archaeology days. People will be trained and supported to help deliver some of the activities through the development of a dedicated volunteer programme.
Welcoming news of the grant, Maxime Sizaret, Chief Executive with CCGHT, said: “HLF’s strong commitment to the Landscape Partnership Scheme in the Glens of Antrim alongside support from a range of partners including the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, NI Tourist Board, Moyle, Larne, Ballymena and Ballymoney Borough and District Councils will bring positive actions during the next 5 years to the Glens’ unique landscapes, heritage and communities”.
