Council re-affirms partnership to realise Lough Neagh potential

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has re-affirmed its commitment to working in partnership with others to realise the full potential of Lough Neagh as a premier leisure and tourism attraction.

The Lough Neagh Partnership is a non-profit company made up of representatives of bodies interested in the development and protection of Lough Neagh.

Councillors received an update on the work of the Partnership including some key projects that have directly benefitted the Borough. The Lough Neagh Partnership assisted the Council in securing £50,000 DAERA funding for tourism cluster projects. It is also contributing content for the interpretive display in The Gateway, has supported the establishment of new businesses and enabled heritage survey work at Antrim Steeple site in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast.
 
The Council approved funding for The Lough Neagh Partnership for a period of three years.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Jim Montgomery said,

“Lough Neagh is one of the greatest tourism assets, not only for our Borough but across Northern Ireland. With hugely diverse flora and fauna, rich history, beautiful landscapes and the opportunity for thrill-seeking watersports it has something for everyone. 

To properly realise the potential of such a major asset, we need to work with other stakeholders, and the Lough Neagh Partnership has proved an effective vehicle to pursue this shared goal. I’m pleased that Council has agreed to continue with its support and look forward to seeing projects delivered over the next three years.”