The much anticipated new exhibition at the Gateway Visitor Centre is nearing completion, and Councillors were impressed with a recent online preview of how it is taking shape.
Situated on the shores of Antrim Lough, the popular Gateway Visitor Centre boasts a 150 sq. m exhibition space, offering unparalleled views across Lough Neagh. In recent months, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council commissioned Totalis to design, supply and install a concept for the exhibition space, reflecting five key themes around the Lough: Legends, Life, Living, Lives and Links.
In a unique connection to the Borough’s built heritage, the Council has secured the return of stoneworks previously adorned on Antrim Castle. A special piece, depicting a mermaid will be incorporated into the Gateway Exhibition drawing upon the theme of Legends.
To enrich the experience for visitors, outside the exhibition an authentic part of Antrim’s maritime and military history could potentially be on its way back to the Antrim Shore of Lough Neagh. The Council is considering the acquisition of a torpedo retrieval boat, known as ‘The Joyce’ which originally operated on the Lough from 1943 during World War II, before being acquired in 1960 when it was decommissioned by the Royal Navy and has been used as a working boat in Weymouth ever since.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Jim Montgomery said
“It is exciting to see the works at the Exhibition Space are nearing completion. With its excellent restaurant and coffee shop, the Gateway Centre has already proven to be very popular and has started the important work of showcasing Lough Neagh as a draw for recreation and visitors.
“The Exhibition will really help to tell the story of the Lough and its influence on our past, present, and future. I am delighted to see the connection to Antrim Castle be included, and express thanks to the Department for Communities and Lord Massereene for their kind permissions.
“Local people talk with fond recollection about the days of the ‘Admiralty’ in Antrim and I’m sure they would be thrilled at the prospect of a tangible piece of our history return. The Torpedo Platform is an important part of the Lough Neagh story and will be a prominent feature within the Gateway Exhibition.”
For more information visit www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/thegateway