Gateway Centre Opens at Antrim Loughshore

Following £2.3m investment in the Antrim Loughshore area, Antrim and Newtownabbey Council is delighted to announce the opening of its new visitor centre, The Gateway.

This project, part funded by DAERA and Lough Neagh Landscape Partnership, will now be home to Lough Neagh Rescue as well as The Boathouse restaurant, with an outdoor terrace offering unparalleled views across Lough Neagh.  A 150 sq. m ground floor room overlooking the Loughshore will host conferences and exhibitions whilst the public conveniences, showers, changing facilities and activity space will support lough based activities.

The contemporary conference space is available for external hire and this light filled space will be transformed into an exciting exhibition area later in the year.  The Boathouse Restaurant is ready for business and it will open its doors on Tuesday 17 December, to offer a range of food throughout the day and into the evening. The Boathouse will also service the exhibition and conferencing space.

By summer 2020, and to compliment the area, a magnificent sculpture will be erected at the water’s edge. Called ‘The Protector of The Lough’ this silhouette will cut clear against the horizon and Finn McCool will be instantly recognisable from far across the water celebrating the Lough, the land, the folklore and the heritage.
 
Anchored within the Council’s tourism strategy, these projects have been delivered to realise tourism growth in the area. Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Alderman John Smyth commented

"Lough Neagh is recognised as one of our Borough’s under-utilised assets and the purpose of this development is to attract more visitors and residents to the Lough. I am delighted to see the progress that has been made.”

Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 8.30am - 8.30 pm 
To be staffed 9-5pm each day
For conferencing enquiries E. culture@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or T. 0300 123 7788