Carrickfergus has been boosted as a more attractive destination for visitors thanks to two new schemes.

In recent months, the Great Tower at Carrickfergus Castle has reopened following a £1 million conservation project and a £660,000 Public Realm Scheme reached completion in the Antrim Street and Lancasterian Street areas of the town.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council also said last month significant progress has been made on a £38 million investment to regenerate, reposition and rebrand Carrickfergus as a 'must-visit' starting point to the internationally recognised Causeway Coastal Route.

Welcoming the latest investments in the town, Alderman Billy Ashe MBE said: "In recent months our officers and elected members have made significant progress in developing a comprehensive Outline Business Case (OBC) for this £38 million investment in the regeneration of the town, setting out a range of important considerations together with the wealth of potential benefits to be derived from the project.

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"The completion of the Carrickfergus Castle and Public Realm projects are key components of our commitment to promoting the town as the gateway to the Causeway Coastal Route and delivering for our local residents and visitors, and for the wider economy of Mid and East Antrim."

Cllr Robin Stewart added: "The town has been given a much welcome facelift with the completion of the Public Realm Scheme through new footways, lighting and street furniture, all of which add to the experience of residents, businesses and visitors alike when they come to Carrickfergus.

"I welcome the collaboration between Council and the Departments for Communities and Infrastructure in bringing the project and that of Carrickfergus Castle to completion and look forward to an exciting future for the town through the City Deal plans."

(CM/MH)