A £50m government scheme to promote tourism on Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland was reviewed at the 3rd Causeway Coast Masterplan forum in Coleraine.

The 10-year initiative aims to promote the Causeway Coast and Glens of Atrim to boost tourism revenue by 9 per cent and visitor numbers by 7 per cent per year.

The forum discussed the successes of the masterplan since its launch in 2004, following a £10m investment.

Completed projects include improved visitor amenities at the West Light House and Seabird Colony on Rathlin Island; a new watersports facility at East Strand Beach, Portrush; a new park and trail at Cottage Wood, Cushendall; expanded facilities at Carfunnock Park, Larne; a new visitor centre at Sentry Hill, Newtonabbey; new interpretational panels in Carrickfergus and a new tourist information centre in Ballymoney.

The completed Causeway Coastal Route Signage scheme now offers Northern Ireland’s first tourist driving trail. Attractions, accommodation and restaurants along the route will now be developed.