Contractors have successfully completed a major tourism development on the Antrim Coast Road.

NI Tourism Minister Arlene Foster, opened the £1.34 million tourism scheme at Loughshore Park, Jordanstown.

The Loughshore Park now marks the start and finish of the Causeway Coastal Route, providing a key stopping off point for visitors and an upgraded and expanded caravan park for tourists. Improvements also include modern visitor amenities, a café, upgraded car park facilities and easier access to the shoreline.

Speaking at the official opening, Arlene Foster said: "While the Giant's Causeway is recognised as Northern Ireland's most iconic tourist attractions, it is important to spread the benefits to the towns and attractions along the coast.

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"This project is a unique opportunity to mark the beginning and end of the Causeway Coastal Route, and it also establishes a key stop-off point for visitors wishing to stay in the area.

"These improvements will not only benefit tourism within the Borough of Newtownabbey but will encourage both locals and tourists alike to explore the Causeway Coastal Route and beyond,"she said.

The NITB Tourism Development Scheme contributed £670,000 towards the project and a further £670,000 was invested by Newtownabbey Borough Council.

Mayor of Newtownabbey Borough Council, Alderman Billy Webb said: "This is an excellent example of co-operation between Newtownabbey Borough Council and the NITB.

"Jordanstown Loughshore Park is one of Newtownabbey’s best-loved parks and it is great to see it being recognised as the gateway to the Causeway Coastal Route. Projects such as this will benefit the local economy by bringing more tourists to the area and encouraging them to stay for longer," said the Alliance politician.

(GK/BMcC)