Antrim Coast & Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Area of Outsatanding Natural Beauty this plan. 3 Contents

Foreword 1

1 A shared heritage A very special place – a celebration of the Antrim Coast and Glens 3

The character of the Antrim Coast and Glens landscape 4

A vision for the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB in 2028 8

Community perceptions 9

Caring for the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB 11

2 Themes

Land, coast and sea 14

Historic environment 23

Sustainable communities 31

3 Making it happen

The next steps 42

Monitoring the plan 47

4 Contexts

Management Plan contexts 49

The Management Planning process 49

Thanks and acknowledgements 51

Glossary 51

Tilly Molloy’s 18 Main Street Armoy Co. Antrim Northern Ireland BT53 8RQ

Tel: 028 2075 2100 Fax: 028 2075 2101 Email: [email protected] Foreword

he Antrim Coast and Glens is a very special part Tof Northern Ireland. Its dramatic coastline with headlands and harbours, its magnificent glens with fast flowing rivers and its unique sense of light and space have given the area a special character that is appreciated by local people and by the many visitors who travel here every year.

The Antrim Coast and Glens is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), designated in 1988 to help protect its special character – recognising it as one of Carnlough and the Antrim Plateau RKE the finest landscapes in the United Kingdom. There are nine AONBs in Northern Ireland and a further 40 in England and Wales – all treasured national assets that need protection for present and future generations.

Alderman Harry Connolly, This is a time of great change in the countryside. Housing and infrastructure Chairman of the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB Management development, changing trends in agriculture, and greater demands for tourism and Group and Deputy Mayor of recreation are all adding pressure on the land. Protecting the AONB and preventing Ballymoney Borough Council damage to its precious resources are crucial both for the landscape itself and for the livelihoods of its communities.

This Management Plan – the first for the AONB – helps to highlight the things that make this area so characteristic and then presents a series of recommendations that collectively will help to conserve and enhance its features, and protect its culture and traditions. It has been produced following consultation with communities and with many organisations that work in the area – your participation has helped to shape a plan that we hope will make a big difference to the AONB.

The Management Plan is for everyone who lives and works in, or visits, the AONB. We all have a part to play in shaping the future of the Antrim Coast and Glens. It will help to guide our actions so that future generations can enjoy this very special place.

1 Management Plan 2008 - 2018 A shared heritage

View from Torr Head RKE

The Antrim Coast and Glens is an area of contrasts – with dramatic cliffs and headlands, the wild open expanse of moorland, gentle bays and valleys, and Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island.

2 A very special place

The coastline is a dramatic sequence of prominent Rathlin Island cliffs, headlands and wide bays at the foot of each glen with Rathlin Island as an outcrop of the basalt plateau perched to the north. The AONB boundary extends out to sea – a diverse range of habitats and an enormously Ballycastle valuable resource for marine life, for the economy and for tourism. Views out to Islay, Jura and the Mull of Kintyre are a crucial part of its character and a reminder of the Glentaisie proximity of Scotland and its islands.

Glenshesk The landscape you see today is the result of an incredibly Ballymoney Cushendun varied geology and thousands of years of human settlement. Fields of ‘ladder farms’ with stone walls or Glendun Glencorp hedgebanks run up the sides of the glens, while scattered Glenaan Cushendall woodlands perch on steeper slopes. The hilltops are covered with open grassland and blanket bogs, with their rich and often uncommon wildlife, and in places bear the scars of mining and turf cutting. Glenballyeamon Glenariff Carnlough The long history of settlement is marked by ancient Glenarm earthworks and tombs, stone enclosures, churches and castles. Groups of farmsteads – the ‘clachans’ – Glencloy and isolated whitewashed farmhouses are scattered AONB Boundary through the valleys, together with characteristic Glenarm round gate posts and whin (local name for Ballygally gorse) hedgerows. It is also marked by a Ballymena community with local traditions and culture, A very Larne and a strong sense of place. special place The AONB is home today to 22,500 people, grouped in settlements mostly along the A celebration of the coastline, or scattered in farms throughout the area. These thriving and dynamic Antrim Coast and Glens communities, with their traditions of arts, music and sports, and their strong connections with the land, are Once isolated from the rest of Ireland by poor access inextricably linked to its character – deriving livelihoods across the Antrim Plateau, this hidden region offers both from its resources and helping to shape its special residents and visitors an exceptional landscape and a features. The largest town, Ballycastle to the north, is an place of tranquillity. Each glen has its own personality, important centre for commerce, while the villages along a result of its individual combination of rocks and soils, the coast, such as Cushendall, Carnlough and Glenarm are pattern of erosion over thousands of years, and the long old fishing communities. history of its inhabitants. The Antrim Coast and Glens area is changing – old The Antrim Plateau is the high ground of the region. It farmhouses, barns and other historic features are is a huge block of volcanic basalt which overlays older disappearing from the landscape, wildlife habitats are rocks such as limestones and sandstones. The plateau threatened, house prices are increasing rapidly and new was cut by glaciers during the last ice age into a series of development is altering the character of settlements. picturesque glens running east and north east to the sea. Producing a Management Plan for the AONB is an This erosion has exposed rocks with contrasting colours – important step in recognising what is valued in the area, red sandstone, white limestone, black basalt and grey clays devising objectives for the future and finding mechanisms – each with its own particular type of vegetation cover. to make sure that change helps to maintain the intrinsic character of the countryside.

this plan. 3 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

The character of the Antrim Coast and Glens landscape

Rathlin Island The character of the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB is described in the Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) of Northern Ireland, produced by the Department of Environment1. The LCA describes 130 different character areas, and 11 of these fall wholly or largely within the AONB Fair Head boundary. The descriptions categorise and describe the AONB’s distinctive landscape patterns. Four other character areas – Dervock Farmlands, Ballymena Farmland, Tardree Upland Ballycastle Glens Pasture and Tardree and Six Mile Water Slopes – have small portions within the AONB boundary but have relatively little impact on the overall AONB character.

The boundaries of the character areas were chosen through field survey. Sometimes they follow precise visual edges but more usually they represent a transition Moyle Glens from one type to the next. By identifying the Moyle features that make each area special, the assessment Moorlands can help to protect the landscape from damage and Forest caused by new land uses and development.

Garron Plateau Larne Glens

Central Ballymena Glens Larne Coast

Larne Basalt Moorland Larne Ridgeland

1 Northern Ireland Landscape Character Assessment, Environment and Heritage 4 Service Research and Development Series No 99/6, ERM, 1999 The character of the Antrim Coast and Glens landscape

The character of the Antrim Coast and Glens landscape

The Landscape Character Areas

Rathlin Island n High plateau landscape with distinctive rugged coast, stepped profile and rocky knolls n Exposed sheep-grazed landscape of windswept trees and broken walls n Rural landscape with main settlement around Church Bay n Long views from hills across the coast

Ballycastle Glens n Scenic valleys and attractive rocky rivers surrounded by smooth rounded hills n Undulating glen slopes supporting rough and improved pastures bounded by hedgerows with gorse Rathllin Island EHS

n Roads following glen sides, linking traditional white farmsteads and newer large farm buildings n Coastal town of Ballycastle within a sheltered bay n Historic remains including mottes, crosses, raths and standing stones

Fair Head n Narrow coastal strip on the northern slopes of the Antrim Plateau n Dramatic cliffs with igneous intrusions giving rise to prominent headlands and sheltered bays n Small scale rough pastures and rocky Fairhead RKE moorland clinging to the steep coastal edge n Degraded round stone walls and derelict stone farmhouses n Important historic features on Fair Head n Coastal road winding along the cliff edge, with seaward views to Kintyre and the Scottish islands

5 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Moyle Moorlands and Forests n Large scale, open and smooth moorlands dissected by small rocky burns n Rough grazing of unimproved grassland and heather with areas of blanket bog n Prominent conifer plantations on lower hillslopes n Exposed landscape with few roads or settlements and scattered farms on the edges of the uplands n Extensive views across open moorland and to the coast n Important archaeological features on the summits

Slieveanorra – Moyle Moorland and Forests CCGHT

Moyle Glens n Dramatic steep glacial valleys within the Antrim Plateau n Northern glens (Glendun, Glenaan) are v-shaped with undulating sides – southern glens (Glenballyemon, Glenariff) are u-shaped with basalt cliffs n Well wooded appearance with hedgerows, trees and ancient broadleaf woodlands n Long straight gorse hedgerows and degraded stone walls running up slopes (the ‘ladder farms’) n Roads following the contours along valley sides n Settlements are concentrated in the bays at the foot of each Glen n Extremely scenic and distinctive valleys with long coastal views and a backdrop of wild moorland

Garron Plateau n Open uneven moorland plateau reaching 438m at Mid Hill n Distinctive stepped slope profile with rocky outcrops, steep descents and deeply incised streams n Moorland grasses predominate with sheep grazing as the major land use n Wind-blown beech trees and stone walls stand silhouetted against the moorland backdrop n Heather on the summits covers extensive tracts of peat bog, with small scale peat cutting n Derelict stone cottages

Central Ballymena Glens n Broad undulating glens overshadowed by imposing moorland summits n Volcanic plug of Slemish is a distinctive landmark visible from the glens n Regular field pattern with stone walls or hedgerows on the valley floor and fencing on the upper slopes n Mounds and knolls on the glen floor n Scots pine, beech and mature hedgerow trees create a strong sense of enclosure

Glendun – Moyle Glens RKE

6 The character of the Antrim Coast and Glens landscape

n White houses, traditional farmsteads and small whitewashed villages stand out as attractive elements n Archaeological remains including raths, chambered graves and standing stones

Larne Glens n Incised glens with smooth ridges rising to stepped moorland and opening out at the Larne coast n Small to medium scale pastures with hedgerows or intact stone walls making a robust field pattern n Evenly scattered white farm buildings stand out as distinctive features against a green backdrop Dungonnell Reservoir – Garron Plateau RKE n Blocks of coniferous forest within the glen, and broadleaved woodland clinging to steeper glen slopes n Old quarry workings, and some active quarries n Roads along the length of the glens provide long views along the valleys and out to sea at the coast

Larne Basalt Moorland n Exposed broad, rounded summits reaching to between 300and 400m, with commercial forestry n Bare of vegetation except a covering of tussocky moorland grasses and some scrub n Windswept gorse in field boundaries and roadside verges n Derelict pastures with rushes and gorse on the edge of the Slemish – Larne Basalt Moorland RKE moor, and derelict stone walls reinforced by wire fencing n Small isolated stone dwellings n Windfarms and radio masts are prominent features

Larne Coast n Rough, highly contoured pasture fringed by a rocky shoreline n Basalt headlands and cliffs create striking ‘gateways’ n Sparse scrubby vegetation, exposed rocks and stone walls n Small wooded glens on steep slopes of basalt uplands n Large settlements on expanded coastal margins (Ballygally) with expansive seaward views to Maidens Lighthouse and Ailsa Craig

Larne Ridgeland Glencoy – Larne Glens RKE n Gently undulating landform dominated by long south west to north east ridges n Gradual transition from lush pastures to upland with smaller, scrubby, wall-enclosed fields n Well structured pastoral farmland of large geometric fields bound by hedgerows n Communications and services corridor with prominent pylons and roads n Sparse settlement with farm buildings and occasional isolated bungalows and houses n Long views bounded by skyline moorland ridges

7 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

A vision for the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB in 2028

The dramatic landscape of the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB, with its characteristic rolling plateau cut by deeply incised glens, its rugged coastline, and the remote ‘jewel’ of Rathlin Island, is protected and treasured for its beauty and tranquillity. The old stone walls and field patterns are maintained by traditional farming practices and the land and marine habitats are rich in wildlife. The diverse fabric of archaeological remains and historic settlements are conserved and made more accessible, while the distinctive cultural heritage of music, folklore and sports are kept alive for all to enjoy.

It is a place where a diversified rural economy is supported by a sustainable farming sector, varied business activity and low impact

tourism based on its landscape, Slemish CCGHT tranquillity and culture. Vibrant communities have access to jobs, services and housing, working together to conserve and enjoy the AONB’s unique features.

8 Community perceptions

Community perceptions

Stakeholder meeting RKE

A crucial part of the process for preparing this plan groups that have an interest in the area and a was consultation with the community to find out responsibility for its management. Consultation has local people’s perceptions of the area and their also highlighted how important it is for organisations desires for the future. to work closely with the community when implementing this plan. Community participation included: Key points from the consultation n Holding eight community workshops in villages and towns throughout the AONB and in What do we value? nearby areas n The remoteness of the Antrim Coast and Glens n Distributing a questionnaire in the Antrim Coast n The wonderful landscapes and Glens AONB Newsletter and on the website n The people – their character, culture and traditions The list on the right is a summary of people’s n The strength of the community – a sense of responses. They have been incorporated into many belonging and pride parts of the plan, including analysing the current n The hills, woodlands, stonewalls and whin resources, identifying issues and challenges and hedgerows presenting objectives and actions for the future. n Local history, music, stories, sport They are important perceptions, balancing and n A safe place for families complementing those of the organisations and n The quality of the light

9 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

What’s changing – good or bad? n Increasing affluence in parts of society – through EU grants and tourism n Incomers contributing to the economy n Difficulty in getting planning permission for building n House prices increasing rapidly n Loss of affordable housing, and amenities such as shops and garages n Lack of jobs outside agriculture n Declining public transport n Insensitive suburban development n Loss of funding for many proposals in the area, particularly tourism-related n Proposed expansion of quarries Closed shop at Waterfoot RKE

Stakeholder meeting RKE What do we want in the future? n Better infrastructure for tourism – facilities, cafes, signs, information and accommodation n Pursue sustainable tourism objectives for the AONB n More community venues n Affordable housing for local people n Protect the character of the Antrim Coast and Glens landscape – no more changes n Celebrate more the local culture through Craft Fair, Cushendall RKE festivals, events and publications n Refine the planning system and strive for more consistency in planning decisions n Improve public transport provision n Protection of habitats and wildlife n Better design for buildings – in keeping with local character n More jobs for young people n More places to park – particularly for tourists n Better management of litter and pollution

Mobile cinema at Cushendall RKE

10 Caring for the Antrim Coast & Glens AONB

Caring for the Antrim Coast & Glens AONB

The purpose of the AONB designation The AONB boundary is shown on page 3. The area The Antrim Coast and Glens was designated as an it contains includes the nine glens from Glenarm to Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in Glentaisie, the coastline from Larne to Ballycastle 1988, under the Nature Conservation and Amenity and Rathlin Island, the only offshore inhabited island. Lands Order (Northern Ireland) 1985. It is one Other islands are uninhabited in Northern Ireland. of nine AONBs in Northern Ireland, and 49 in the It also includes an undefined area of sea. This plan United Kingdom. The AONB designation provides considers marine issues out to 3km from the coast, the area with a formal statutory recognition as a but some will be relevant out to the 12 nautical landscape of national importance. It allows the miles limit of territorial waters. Department of Environment to formulate proposals for conserving its natural beauty, wildlife, historic The designated purpose of the AONB is the objects and natural phenomena, for promoting responsibility of the Department of Environment for its enjoyment by the public and for providing or Northern Ireland. The Planning Service may include maintaining public access to it. AONBs within Countryside Policy Areas and set policies that help to control damaging development within the AONB (see ‘Management Plan contexts on page 49).

The purpose of the Management Plan Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are complex places. Most of the land is in private ownership and there are many individuals and organisations that have an influence on its protection and management. A Management Plan helps to identify a long term ‘vision’ for the area and a means of coordinating activity to care for it in the future. This plan does the following:

n Summarises the views of AONB ‘stakeholders’ who have an interest in the area n Identifies its special features n Analyses what is happening to these features – how are they changing n Describes the current work being done by organisations and individuals to look after it n Presents objectives and actions that would help to maintain and enhance its character n Suggests mechanisms that would help to implement these actions Barbican Gate, Glenarm Estate RKE

The Management Plan is aimed at everyone who lives and works in the AONB, visits it, or has an interest in its wellbeing for the future. It has been compiled through discussions with a wide range of organisations and individuals including consultation with the community, and by using studies and strategies relevant to the area.

Glenarm marina RKE 11 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

(EHS) Natural Heritage Strategic Plan (2003), Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) Rural Strategy (2007-2013), DARD draft Rural Development Programme (2007-2013), the Northern Ireland Biodiversity Strategy (2002), the Regional Development Strategy for Northern Ireland (2025), EHS’s Shared Horizons – the Future of Northern Ireland Protected Landscapes (2003) and Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s (NITB) Strategic Framework for Tourism Development in Northern Ireland (2004-2007). This Management

Carnlough Harbour RKE Plan has been informed by these policies, and aims to inform them in future iterations.

The Department of Environment (DoE), and EHS on its behalf, produce policies and programmes for key areas including landscape, built and natural heritage, public access and promoting awareness. The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL), The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI), and its agency NITB, produce policies for sustainable tourism development, tourism marketing, research, tourism product development and visitor servicing. Local councils also produce strategies and plans relevant to this Cushendun village RKE plan that include policies on economic regeneration, cultural and tourism development, public access, The Management Plan is not a statutory document – environmental management and Local Agenda 21 it provides guidance for organisations and individuals issues. The Management Plan should be considered who have an interest in the protection and and delivered within this complex framework. management of the AONB, and presents an evidence base and vision that can help in the formulation of planning policy for the area. It also recognises, and is informed by, other relevant plans and strategies that may have an impact on the area, for example for conservation, economic development and tourism provision.

Strategic framework for the Management Plan The key policy framework alongside which this plan sits is provided by the Regional Development Strategy, the relevant Planning Policy Statements and the Area Plans relevant for the AONB – the North East Area Plan (2002), the draft Northern Area Plan (2016), the Ballymena Area Plan (1986-2001) and the Larne Area Plan (2010). The emerging Antrim, Ballymena and Larne Area Plan (2016) will provide the framework for that part of the AONB during the lifetime of this Management Plan (See chapter 4: Contexts, p. 49, for more information). Other relevant policies are contained within the Environment and Heritage Service Near Cushendun RKE

12 Themes

Lurig, near Cushendall NITB

this plan. 13 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Land, coast and sea

The AONB is a pastoral landscape. Old field boundaries, mosaics of fields, copses and rough grazings, and settlement patterns of traditional farmsteads and vernacular architecture, all reflect this pastoral tradition. The traditional ‘ladder farm’ where the divisions of land run up the slopes giving each farmer land for cultivation, summer grazing, timber, peat and water, is a distinctive feature, and, in valleys such as Glenariff, Craignamaddy on Garron Plateau RKE is the dominant pattern of land use.

he Antrim Coast and Glens has an The accelerating pace of change presents outstanding diversity of landscapes challenges for many of the special features of the and habitats, from the open AONB. In particular, the way that agricultural T practice has responded to the global economy in moorlands and blanket bogs, the intimate the last fifty years has resulted in major changes mosaics of grasslands, woodlands and to the way that the landscape is managed. Large wetlands in the valleys, to the rugged areas of the best wildlife habitats are now below coastline and the sea. This diversity of acceptable condition, or have been lost to other form and habitats supports a wildlife land uses, and many of the traditional features which characterise the landscape, such as stone resource of international importance. walls and gateways, are not being maintained. outstanding diversity of landscap While there is still an immense resource of Geology is the origin of the region’s natural wildlife and landscape, the changes of the last half beauty and wildlife riches. Nearly all of the century have diminished the unique natural values geological ages of Northern Ireland are of the AONB. represented here. The dominant structure is the hard and acidic basalt lava flows of the Garron Plateau, protecting the soft rocks beneath. Where the hard crust has been penetrated by rivers and Long term management aims glaciers, the glens have been gouged out. Steep crags and cliffs characterise the glen sides and n Improve awareness of the need coastal fringe, defining the landscape of the region. for better protection and Coastal erosion has exposed some of the most important geological sequences in Ireland and management of the AONB many of these are protected as Areas of Special n Improve our understanding of Scientific Interest (ASSI). the AONB n The wide range of rock chemistries gives rise to Protect and manage wildlife and a wealth of soil types. This, combined with great geological sites topographical variation, underlies the immense n Restore the landscape and wildlife diversity of habitats and the wildlife within them. of areas which have been degraded The area is so special for wildlife that around half of the AONB is protected by international law. by recent changes Paramount are the upland habitats of the Garron n Protect and manage the visual Plateau, the range of habitats on Rathlin Island and and wildlife resources of the sea the great diversity of coastal and marine habitats which form the transition of the AONB from land to sea.

14 Land, coast and sea

The key features importance. They are characterised by a Geology general lack of visual intrusion from pylons and n The geology of the AONB is dominated by telecommunications towers – the exception being the lava flows which form the Antrim Plateau Slieveanorra. and extend across to Rathlin Island. Basalt provides a protective capping for the softer n The moorlands are large sweeping, open rocks below. The pale Cretaceous limestones landscapes used mostly for rough grazing of the are the most distinctive of these, but there are unimproved grassland and heather. There are representatives of Permian, Triassic and Jurassic large areas of blanket bog and extensive conifer periods too. The coast provides wonderful plantations on the hill slopes. Once managed exposures of this geological time-series. extensively for grouse shooting, this activity has Between Cushendall and Ballycastle, there are declined in recent years. exposures of older Devonian and Carboniferous rocks, and an extensive area of the very oldest n The Glens are a series of steep-sided valleys Proterozoic rocks. – v-shaped in the north with undulating sides, and u-shaped further south with dramatic basalt n Volcanic plugs of dolerite rising above the cliffs. The hill sides are characterised by Antrim Plateau are particularly distinctive with straight hedges running vertically up the hills. the larger ones such as Scawt Hill, Slemish and Hedgerows and copses of deciduous trees give Tievebulliagh. At the latter, a slipped block of a well wooded appearance, while numerous basalt was metamorphosed to form porcellanite, disused quarries produce dramatic features a very rare type of rock used by Neolithic along the steep glen slopes. people to make axe heads. n Data from DARD indicates that this remains n The Pleistocene Ice Age carved out the Glens principally a pastoral landscape. Around 0.8% of Antrim and provided the scenery which is the of the AONB was under crop in 2006, a slight basis of the AONB. More recently, the Holocene decrease since 2000. Clearly, management of period provided a range of sediments which grazing is an important tool for maintaining the provide a record of the impact of humans on landscape. the environment, most notably the peat of the n There are many farmsteads and ‘clachans’ Plateaux. sheltered in the rolling glens, often bounded by sturdy stone walls and hedgerows that ‘fit’ well n In addition to determining the character with the landform. Field barns are distinctive and arrangement of the habitats of the region, features though many are in disrepair. Many of the geology is closely linked to early human villages and smaller settlements have magnificent activity by providing the mineral resources for settings at the mouths of rivers or along the a developing society. Porcellanite, limestone coast itself. These features are linked by small for lime and construction, coal, peat, iron ore, roads crossing rivers on attractive stone bridges. bauxite and a range of other lesser minerals were utilised from the first arrival of humans n The coastline is varied, characterised by steep, through to today. The infrastructure needed stepped basalt cliffs and rocky headlands in the to extract and transport this mineral wealth north and undulating lowland with rugged belts provides the bulk of the region’s industrial of rough pasture to the south. The coast road archaeology. is confined to a raised beach, giving superb views to the sea and to Scotland in the distance. Landscape Rathlin Island is a land of high cliffs formed from n Eleven Landscape Character Areas have been limestone topped by volcanic basalt, with an identified for the AONB (described on page 5). exposed grassy plateau, many small loughs and a The 250m contour divides the 70,600ha of the varied coastline. AONB into approximately half upland plateau and hill top, and half lowland glens and coast. n The seascape is generally devoid of manmade structures away from coastal settlements. n Many of the hills and volcanic plugs form Underwater, however, there is a wealth of prominent landmarks and have become iconic wrecks, cables and discarded ordnance which features of great cultural and landscape are clear evidence of human intrusion.

15 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

n Sites of Local Nature Conservation Importance (SLNCIs) are a second tier of protected sites. The programme of identification is determined by the ten-year timeframe for Area Plan development.

n The wider countryside outside ASSIs and SLNCIs remains a substantial resource for nature conservation. Without formal protection, Bluebells CCGHT such wildlife is dependent on good farming Habitats and wildlife practice and, latterly, the benefits of agri- n Table 1 summarises the broad habitats of the environment schemes. two divisions. The AONB has a relatively high area of semi-natural habitat compared to most n The Woodland Trust has compiled an Ancient parts of the UK. Woodland (AW) Inventory for Northern Ireland. A number of AW sites have been Table 1 : Habitats in the uplands and planted with non-native species and are in need lowlands, c.19902 of restoration. Percentage cover Habitat Lowland Upland n Recent studies at the Great Deer Park, (<250m) (>250m) Glenarm, show the site is the best in Northern Improved grassland 45.5 6.6 Ireland for biodiversity associated with parkland Species rich grassland 5.7 0 Hill pasture 10.1 15.1 and wood pasture (it also has archaeological Heath including whin importance) and ranks in the top flight of UK and bracken 8.2 8.4 sites. Although already an ASSI for ancient Peatland 10.8 51.4 woodland communities, it also qualifies on all Broadleaf woodland 4.2 0 three veteran tree ASSI criteria. Conifer plantation 3.4 16.6 Arable 3.2 0 n The coastal land and inshore waters are rich Urban, roads, other 8.9 1.9 Total 100 100 in natural resources and wildlife, containing about 50% of the region’s biodiversity. The cliffs

n The AONB has large areas so important for support many coastal plant communities and are wildlife they are protected by international law. internationally important nesting sites for seabirds Rathlin Island coast and the Antrim Hills are such as guillemot, razorbill and puffin. Rathlin Island Special Protection Areas recognised for their is especially important in this context. bird interest. The latter alone covers just over n The marine life of the AONB is extremely rich 27,000 ha, most of the Plateau and around and varied. The exposed rocky shores and sub- 40% of the AONB area. Rathlin Island and the tidal rocky habitats around much of the AONB marine areas around it, Breen Wood and the coastline have very diverse plant and animal Garron Plateau are protected as Special Areas communities. Kelp beds are characteristic of of Conservation for their rare habitats and Rathlin and the mainland coast, while calcareous species. Together these sites are referred to as algae beds (known as Maerl) are found at Natura 2000 sites and cover 35,091ha, 50% of Garron Point and Ballygally Head. Common the AONB area. and grey seals, the harbour porpoise and the

n Many of the best biodiversity and geological bottlenose dolphin are key marine mammal sites are included in eighteen sites protected as species (See ‘Life in the sea off the Antrim ASSIs. Some are small and scattered. The ASSI Coast’, guidebook published by CCGHT). series covers around 8535ha, 12% of the AONB area. The resource of protected woodland, species-rich grassland and lowland wetland is very small.

2 Source: DoE (1990) Antrim Coast and Glens AONB: Guide to 16 Designation. DoE, Belfast. The 2007 countryside survey was not available at the time of compiling this plan. Land, coast and sea

Issues and challenges n The moorland habitat is in especially poor condition, thought to be the reason why hen n The geological resource is mostly in reasonable condition. The raised beach features and the harriers and merlin nest in sitka spruce trees rather important geological exposures along the coast than their usual nesting habitat on the ground. have been damaged by the construction of the coast road, and in particular by the coastal n Past peat cutting on the moors has had a defence works. significant visual and wildlife impact, degrading their physical integrity. Current peat cutting activity is localised. The impact is likely to be small but has not been quantified. Much more extensive drainage of blanket bog has also degraded its wildlife value.

n The landscape we see today has been ‘modelled’ by thousands of years of human settlement. It is the result of a close association between man and the natural environment and a strong sense of ownership and belonging by the communities of the Glens. There is Forestry on Garron Plateau RKE little quantitative information available on the condition of the landscape at a finer scale than n There is very little data regarding the quality of that contained within the Landscape Character habitats, or for trends over time. Consultations Assessments. suggest the areas of habitats described in Table 1 are stable with perhaps an increase in land lost n Commercial forestry in the uplands is a to development and further loss of species-rich significant land use. The extensive tracts of grassland and heath. EHS suggest in discussion forest mask the diversity of the underlying that less than half of the ASSIs are in favourable landform, affecting its character. Further forestry condition. EHS also estimates that at least 50% would change the landscape dramatically. There of SLNCIs are in poor condition. The trend in is little data available on the impacts of current change of condition is likely to be worse than for and any future forestry on the landscape. the statutory sites as SLNCIs receive no funding other than agri-environment schemes. Similar n Skylines and summits are sensitive to change – comments are likely to apply to the biodiversity electricity lines and pylons, telecommunications resource in the wider countryside, although the aerials and windfarms all would have a significant evidence base for this is poor. impact. Mines and quarries have a major effect on the uplands, particularly at the exposed rock faces n An imbalanced grazing pressure may be an overlooking Glenarm. Further extensions to important cause of loss of condition, with quarries will influence the character of the hills. hill pastures and bog being overgrazed and marginal lands under-grazed or even abandoned. n In the farmed lowlands, there is evidence Both under- and over-grazing has affected the of past hedgerow and stone wall removal maritime grasslands of cliff tops. However, data to increase the size of fields (field boundary from DARD indicate a 16% drop in the number removal has not been permitted since 1st of cattle in the AONB between 2000 and 2007, January 2005). Many stone walls and buildings and a 14% drop in the number of sheep. are in poor condition and there is a risk they will gradually disappear from the landscape. Derelict n Recent alterations in farm subsidies away structures give the land a degraded appearance. from headage payments and toward whole Traditional stone bridges are also being lost, farm payments will assist better environmental replaced by steel and concrete structures. management.

17 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

water treatment appears to be poor according to community and stakeholder opinion and infrastructure may be in need of upgrade. There have been reports of untreated sewage discharges at Cushendun and Cushendall, although standard water quality monitoring undertaken by EHS suggests the coastal waters are in good condition and that pollution events are not typical, or of significant concern.

n No evidence was found Coastal woodland near Garron Point RKE regarding the positive or negative impacts of fish farming, aquaculture or n Development is one of the most significant other diffuse pollutant discharges arising from processes reducing the extent of natural the land. The impact of all these on the marine habitats, especially for sites not statutorily elements of the Rathlin Island SAC/SPA has not protected. Development within the Coastal been assessed. Zone (defined by the Integrated Coastal 3 Zone Management Strategy (ICZM) in NI n Climate change will affect a wide range of as between 3km inland of the coast and 12 biodiversity, but addressing its impacts will be nautical miles out to sea) continues to have a especially difficult due to its global origin and a significant impact on the landscape where views limited understanding of likely changes and of are confined by the rugged landforms. There measures to adapt to its effects. are pressures for new houses and apartments and also for road improvements, campsites and n Coastal and marine issues include unexploded caravan parks and other tourism infrastructure. munitions from the Beaufort Dyke which are The impacts are particularly noticeable on the sometimes brought ashore through dredging fringes of larger settlements such as Ballycastle. and pipe laying, coastal erosion at Waterfoot and Ballycastle beach, and the effects of scallop n There is less known about the condition fishing off Rathlin Island causing ecological of the water environment than other damage. habitats. Little statistical data is available but consultations and professional opinion n Fly tipping is a significant issue in places all suggest water quality in the rivers has throughout the AONB with rubbish dumped on significantly declined, along with indicator roadside verges, in fields and in the rivers. species such as salmon and trout. Waste

3 Towards an Integrated Coastal Zone Management Strategy for 18 Northern Ireland, 2006 – 2026, DoE June 2006 Land, coast and sea

Current effort n At the time of writing (2008), the process of identifying and designating SLNCIs within n Conservation objectives have been written for the Natura 2000 sites – Breen Woods SAC, development plans has been completed for the Rathlin SAC/SPA, the Garron Plateau SAC and the draft Northern Area Plan, subject to independent Antrim Hills SPA. A review of these objectives is examination and plan adoption and is still ongoing. Conservation objectives are complete underway for the Antrim, Ballymena and Larne for the ASSIs. Area Plan.

n Conservation organisations directly manage n EHS is responsible for supporting the management of special sites through the 1941ha of land for biodiversity, 2.8% of the Management Of Sensitive Sites (MOSS) grants AONB (Table 2). Some have formed management scheme, but the budget is £400,000 p.a. 4 for the partnerships, e.g. RSPB and the National Trust on whole of NI with 75% committed to long term Rathlin Island. arrangements. n Agri-environment schemes constitute the highest level of funding for land management in n On the Garron Plateau, a separate Management Plan supported by MOSS funds, undertakes the AONB. A new integrated programme (the restoration of grip-drained bog in one site. Northern Ireland Countryside Management Scheme) has been agreed by the EU as part of the new Rural Development Programme 2007-2013. n At Breen Wood, negotiations with the Forest Service were being undertaken to naturalise It focuses on four key themes: the species mix in the plantation woodland n Biodiversity which surrounds the SAC on three sides. DARD n Water quality indicates that the ancient woodland area is n Landscape and heritage currently being restored to native woodland. n Climate change Take-up rates for the previous scheme were high with a long waiting list developing for the new n EHS is responsible for the conservation of all sites according to its resources, but the Natura scheme. The current schemes include 10,272 ha 2000 sites have priority. of land in 274 agreements, 15% of the AONB (see Table 3). The schemes have been effective in targeting land of high priority for biodiversity n Conservation efforts are hampered by the lack of accurate, up to date biodiversity data needed conservation. The Agri-environment scheme for a planned and strategic approach to nature budget for NI was approximately £26 million in conservation. 2007/8.

Table 2 : Land under management of conservation organisations Organisation Land Area (ha) Sites EHS 142 Breen Wood, Glenariff Glen, Kebble, Slieveanorra National Trust5 1427 Cushendun, Layde Car Park, Cushleake Mountain, Murlough Bay/Benvan, Rathlin Island - Ballyconaghan and Ballycarry RSPB 80 Rathlin Island Ulster Wildlife Trust 256 Feystown, Glenarm, Glendun Hill Farm, Straidkilly Woodland Trust 36 The Drum, Cargan

4 To compare, £400k is about the cost of a four bedroom unit in one of the new developments on the AONB coast, or the cost of a round- about on an A-road. 5National Trust has protective covenants over an additional 295ha at Cushendun, Craighag Wood and Fairhead.

19 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Table 3 : Area of habitats under agreement, 2007. Data from DARD n The Planning Service considers the Habitat Type Hectares recommendations of the Landscape Improved grassland 2795 Character Assessments, amongst other policy Unimproved grassland 2805 documents and material considerations, as Heather moorland 2464 part of the development control process. Blanket bog 525 n The new Rural Development Programme Rough moorland grazing 805 also offers support for conversion to organic Lowland raised bog 1 farming. The Sustainable Forestry Operations Wet grassland 147 Grant Scheme will offer support for improving Wetlands – carr/swamp 5 woodlands and for actions directed at Species rich dry grassland 312 implementing woodland Habitat Action Species rich wet grassland 83 Plans or Species Action Plans that depend Species rich hay meadows 3 on woodland. These schemes have great Scrub 79 potential for assisting biodiversity in the wider Woodland (99.9% ungrazed) 157 countryside. Wildlife corridors and ungrazed field margins 31 Traditional orchards 0.5 n Other aspects of the new Rural Planting native trees 5 Development Programme have the Archaeological features 21 potential for damaging biodiversity and the wider countryside. In particular, the n The agri-environment schemes provide for 5-year First Afforestation and Modernisation of field boundary restoration schemes (see Table 4). Agricultural Holdings initiatives present Over the 5 years this equates to nearly 37km of threats that may not be intercepted by cross- boundary restoration. compliance and standard working practices by DARD. Improved availability of biodiversity information and closer working between Table 4 : Annual length of field boundary agencies should help prevent negative impacts. restoration since 2001. Data from DARD Field Boundary Annual length (m) Hedge restoration 4861 Sod banks 63 Dry stone walls 378 Uncategorised 2062 TOTAL 7364

The coast near Ballygally NITB

20 Land, coast and sea

Most of these staff have a responsibility for landscape management alongside biodiversity conservation. In addition, there are a wide range of conservation staff based outside the area but with responsibility for issues and sites in the AONB.

n Habitat Action Plans have been prepared for priority land, coastal and marine habitats in NI. Some are relevant for habitats within the AONB, and the actions within this plan are compatible with the relevant BAP proposals.

n EHS Water Management Unit undertakes a wide ranging monitoring programme of fresh and coastal waters. This is tied in to national standards and increasingly those of the Water Framework Directive. Much of the information is available on the EHS website (www.ehsni.gov.uk).

n The Draft Marine Bill currently being considered by Parliament, advocates Marine Waterfall and ferns, Glenariff Forest Park RKE Spatial Planning (MSP) for managing activities and n Many of the initiatives undertaken for developments in the coastal zone, and also for biodiversity conservation are equally relevant for protecting and restoring marine biodiversity. It the protection and better management of the would provide a mechanism for regulating fishing. landscape including: n naturalisation of species mixes in forestry n The Department of Environment has produced plantations an Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) n management of protected sites by EHS and Strategy for the entire NI coastline which aims to other conservation organisations integrate the interests and responsibilities of all n funding of special sites through the MOSS those involved in the management and use of the grants scheme coast. n development of agri-environment schemes which have landscape conservation as a key theme n The Northern Ireland Coastal and Marine Forum (CMF) is a partnership of organisations n There are a wide range of staff working in the with an interest in the management of the marine AONB for biodiversity. In 2007 they were: environment. The CMF provides a mechanism for n RSPB: three full time staff on Rathlin Island integrating management activities for the coast n National Trust: one property manager and eight and for implementing the ICZM. land management staff n DARD: nine agri-environment scheme farm advisors/inspectors and one senior adviser work in County Antrim, which includes the whole of the AONB n EHS: two NNR site managers n UWT: site management staff and volunteers n CCGHT: three staff members shared between the three AONBs n BAP Officer: shared between three AONBs (Causeway Coast AONB, Antrim Coast & Glens AONB and Binevenagh AONB) Heather at Sallagh Linda Foy

21 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Glenariff Forest Park RKE The future for land, coast and sea Objectives for land, Our vision for the future is that visitors and the coast and sea local community will appreciate and value the natural features of the Antrim Coast and Glens, and n Objective 1 Promote greater maintain a strong sense of ownership. Their role in appreciation and enjoyment of the landscape its conservation wil be understood and accepted. and wildlife assets of the AONB, and their need for protection and management All protected wildlife sites will be in good condition with no further loss of the current resource. They will be located within the wider countryside, which n Objective 2 Undertake survey and is rich in wildlife and where work to reconnect research to fill the gaps in the information wildlife habitats is well advanced. The sea and base needed for wildlife conservation coastal zone will be managed to maintain all of their physical and biological functions and the marine n Objective 3 Ensure all designated sites protected sites will also be in good ecological are in good condition6 by the end of the condition. Management of the AONB will take Vision period in 2028 account of external pressures such as climate change or global changes in the agricultural market. n Objective 4 Restore degraded habitats The features which define the character of the and rebuild the wildlife value of the wider Antrim Coast and Glens landscape will be retained countryside, coast and marine environments and their condition enhanced.

The sustainable management of land, coast and n Objective 5 Protect the character of the marine resources of the AONB will continue to landscape and seascape, restoring key areas contribute strongly to the local economy. Through of visual prominence where their character sustainable development, the AONB will support has become degraded a vibrant and informed population that is actively engaged in the conservation of the natural values of the area.

6 Good condition’ is equivalent to ‘favourable condition’ as defined by 22 EHS for ASSIs and the Natura 2000 sites. Historic environment

to the farmed landscape, or structures associated Historic environment with the industrial heritage. Grand houses, historic parks and gardens and military heritage are also he Antrim Coast and Glens has represented but to a lesser extent. been occupied by people for The historic resource is non-renewable, and its Tthousands of years and evidence protection and management is a particular priority of their presence can be seen throughout for the AONB. Many of the most important sites the area, from the flint arrows and are protected by law, and most of the undesignated sites are recorded on EHS’s Sites and Monuments axes of the first hunter gatherers to Record. Five designated conservation areas also help a multitude of tombs, barrows, field to protect significant villages. However, the care and patterns and farmsteads of later settlers. management of the historic resource is less assured. The area is rich with historic features, State owned monuments are generally in acceptable condition while the condition of those in private culture and traditions revealing the ownership is variable, with many falling into disrepair. complex stories of our heritage. Many listed buildings, and unlisted buildings of The evidence of at least 9,000 years of human historic interest, are deteriorating or becoming occupation is present throughout the AONB. The derelict, with many being replaced by, or resource is rich and well studied. Key to understanding incorporated into, new buildings. An important the historic environment is: issue is to find a sustainable economic use for the built heritage or the resources to maintain n The relationship between Antrim and Scotland monuments which could have no such use. which provided an exchange of people and ideas by sea between the two regions. Long term management aims n The geology and physical structure which isolated n Improve awareness of, and the region from the rest of Ireland and also separated the communities of the Glens. They also provided the participation in, the historic natural resources which has determined much of the environment and encourage its region’s archaeology and built heritage. enjoyment by all, enhancing access where appropriate n The isolation of Rathlin Island which resulted in a distinctive community. n Conserve scheduled monuments The archaeological evidence of all of the ages since and listed buildings through better the Neolithic period is represented in the AONB. survey information, direct Religious artefacts are also important from the Early conservation work with owners and Christian period onward. The influence of the religious provision of advice and support divide in the politics and culture of the region is shown to be very old indeed. n Conserve the special character of The archaeology of the Neolithic period is of the villages protected as particular importance. The porcellanite mines at conservation areas Tievebulliagh and Rathlin, which gave rise to a European trade in polished stone implements, are of n Conserve the historic fabric of international significance. The AONB is also rich in the AONB that has not so far Megalithic tombs. been specially protected, by building The region is rich in buildings of historic or good working relationships architectural merit and these are protected as listed with owners and providing advice buildings. Reflecting the AONB’s development, the and support majority of the stock is vernacular buildings relating

23 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

The key features n The Bronze Age saw a departure from multiple burials in chambered tombs to individual burial Main archaeological periods deposits. Single or groups have been found at All periods of human occupation are represented by Church Bay on Rathlin, or near to Ballycastle, or sites and artefacts: whole cemeteries at Drumnakeel, Glenmakeeran and on Rathlin. n The Antrim Coast is particularly important for the archaeology of the Mesolithic period. The raised beaches and coast of the AONB have yielded flint n Recent work by the Centre for Maritime instruments from the first hunter-gatherers, Archaeology found extensive evidence of Bronze around 9000 years ago. The concentration of finds Age activity on Rathlin, including settlements and use along the Antrim Coast gave rise to the description of the caves. of the area as the “birthplace of Irish Mesolithic studies”. n The Iron Age is marked by few field monuments, n The Neolithic period, 6000 the reason for this being years ago, provides the unclear. The first written first evidence of settlement in records for Ireland were the Glens. Farming collected soon after this communities were established period and it has been claimed which may have that the first sagas referred lasted for up to 2000 years. This to the period. The massive promontory forts at Knockdhu period also saw the birth of the Crannog, on Lough na Cranagh RKE first true “industry” of the area. and Lurigethan, and the ring Porcellanite, a rare type of stone created by volcanic barrows at Linford, have been positively identified activity, was quarried at outcrops on Tievebulliagh as from this period. The artistic style La Tene is near Cushendall and Brockley on Rathlin. The stone associated with this period, including the ornamental was then made into axe heads and the products bronze scabbards found at Lisnacrogher which have exported to mainland Britain and into Europe. been described as the finest of their type found in These two sites are some of the most important Ireland. archaeological sites in the AONB. n Artefacts from the Roman and Viking civilisations n Local geology also provided rich sources of flint, are sparse as the area was not settled by these very uncommon in the Highland Zone. An opencast cultures, although evidence of Viking occupation on flint mine has been excavated at Ballygally Hill near Rathlin is emerging. Larne and others occur at Glenarm and Carnlough. n Representation of the Early Christian period, 5th- n The most prominent Neolithic features are the 12th Centuries, is very strong with both ecclesiastic megalithic tombs. All of the four tomb types found and non-religious remains. Raths (secular enclosed in Northern Ireland are represented: farmsteads, often locally known as forts or forths) n Court Tomb – Ossian’s Grave, a monument in are the most common evidence from this period, State care at Lubitavish found in the lowlands. Cashels are stone-built n Portal Tomb – there is a cluster of three buried in equivalents of raths, located in the rocky uplands. blanket bog at Ballyvennaught Crannogs, structures thought to be more defensive n Passage Tombs – one of the best examples is on than cashels and raths, are associated with lakes and Carnanmore near Torr Head therefore quite rare in the region. One exists at n Wedge Tomb – such as Dunteige near Ballygally Lough-na-Cranagh near Fairhead.

n n The start of metalworking is shown in the copper Souterrains are stone-built underground tunnels, tools and objects of the Beaker people, sometimes roofed with large flat slabs or lintels. Their primary found in the later Wedge Tombs. purpose was to offer refuge during attack, but they may also have been used for storing provisions, to keep them cool underground.

24 Historic environment

n The main conversion to Christianity began in the 5th Century, and is closely associated with St Patrick who is thought to have been captive on Slemish during his boyhood. There are no early Christian churches still existing although many medieval churches were built on the site of their older precursors.

n Abbeys and friaries also survive mostly as incorporations into later structures such as parish churches. Bonamargy Friary, a monument in State care near Ballycastle, is a later example of a Friary, founded in around 1500. Bonamargy Friary RKE

n The Medieval period saw the first Anglo-Norman occupation of Northern Ireland, in 1177. The early phase of conquest is marked by the occurrence of motte and baileys, the earthwork remains of early castles. A notable example is at Red Bay. The power struggles of the Gaelic dynasties in the late Medieval period gave rise to more permanent castles.

n Ecclesiastical architecture from the medieval period can be seen in a number of parish churches. One of the most important is Layd Church and graveyard which is a monument in State care near Cushendall.

n The Penal Laws, initiated in 16917, suppressed Catholic worship in churches. Outside services in Cemetery at Bonamargy Friary RKE remote locations were adopted by the worshippers and are now marked only by mass rocks which are often carved, for example at Cushendun. The Penal Laws were a principle mechanism for promulgating the sectarian divide which has run through so much of Northern Irish history.

n Information on scheduled monuments and listed buildings can be found on the EHS website www.ehsni.gov.uk.

7Officially known as “Laws in Ireland for the Suppression of Popery”. Those created between 1691 and 1760 can be viewed at Gatehouse at Bonamargy Friary RKE www.law.umn.edu/irishlaw/intro.html

25 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Marine and environmental n Later settlements congregated mostly around archaeology gateways to the sea such as rivers and ports, less n Because of its location and maritime history, often to other centres of industry and commerce. Rathlin Island provides a rich and distinctive The settlements include a diverse stock of archaeological resource. Most periods of history vernacular architecture from the grand house to the are represented in the remains, from late Mesolithic workers’ abode. Topography places major constraints onward, with a bias toward the late medieval period. on the availability of suitable building sites. Few settlements occur above 250m, and rural vernacular n There is a range of marine historic features buildings are thus limited in number. under the sea, mostly ships, but also other artefacts associated with human use of the marine n Five towns and villages have been designated environment. conservation areas – Cushendun, Cushendall, Glenarm, Ballycastle and Carnlough. These n The peatlands of the Garron Plateau preserve an acknowledge the importance of the collective important archaeological resource, including remains townscape of historic and vernacular architecture. of human activity and a record of our past natural They provide examples of significant buildings which environment. The pollen and tree-ring record are should be recognised and promoted for their value. also preserved in the blanket bogs and quaking bogs, No studies have been undertaken on the landscape enhancing our understanding of environmental change. settings for the conservation areas.

Listed buildings n Early vernacular architecture greatly reflected n The 17th century marks the broad division the locations in which structures were built. Sites between monuments and the later listed buildings, of in the rural areas were selected to be accessible which there are many more. The Second Survey of but sheltered, often fitting snugly and unobtrusively listed buildings is currently underway (see EHS listed within the contours of the landscape. Local builders building online database www.ehsni.gov.uk). passed down local styles and used local materials. This provided clusters of distinct architectures. In n The main architectural interest of the area is in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries, buildings vernacular and industrial buildings. became less local in character. Technological advances allowed larger buildings of universal design to be built. n The area has an important post-1700 industrial They could be entirely independent of topographic heritage, most notably associated with the linen, controls, panoramic views and prominent spots being corn milling and kelp industries, though the particularly favoured. extraction of lime, iron-ore and coal were also of local significance. Cultural heritage n The Glens of Antrim Historical Society n Other important sectors of historic heritage emphasises the importance of the less tangible whose significance is increasingly understood cultural resource – oral history, legends and the include historic parks and gardens, defence heritage, written archive. The links with Scotland particularly battlefields and maritime artefacts. The agricultural during the Kingdom of Dalriada, are of central industry from this period is evidenced by the stone importance in defining the cultural and historic walls associated with ladder farms. Glenariff has identity of the AONB. The Glens was one of the probably the finest example of this field pattern. last Irish-speaking areas of Ulster, where it was the universal language of much of the area until the n Clachans – small hamlets of farmsteads – are construction of the Coast road in the 1850s. Use one of the defining features of the rural settlement of the language had declined significantly by the pattern. They arose around the mid 19th Century turn of the 20th Century, inaugurating a nationwide and are one of the main repositories of rural initiative, the Gaelic Revival. vernacular architecture.

26 Historic environment

Issues and challenges n The monuments under State care are all in acceptable to good condition. The condition of those in private hands is much more variable. n The owner is required by legislation to prevent direct damage to scheduled monuments. They are not required to maintain them or prevent indirect damage caused by weather and time, though EHS field wardens work with landowners to ensure wherever possible that monuments do not fall derelict. The non-scheduled monuments Derelict farm buildings RKE are protected by policy and inter-departmental n Concern has been expressed that the stock of working. listed vernacular buildings has become degraded, especially in conservation areas, by a combination n Other than those in State care, all of the of dereliction and incremental changes made by monuments are on private land with no open owners. access. This has been raised as a concern among local people and some officers. n A number of buildings have been delisted as part of the Second Survey of built heritage n Drainage or aforestation of blanket bogs is currently being undertaken by EHS, though this is known to damage the palaeo-environment mitigated to some degree by new buildings being record but the extent of any damage has not added to the list. Many of the delistings have taken been determined in the AONB. According to place within the conservation areas in Ballycastle the Forest Service, some upland forests include and Glenarm, as a result of degradation. The large areas of undisturbed peat which are better Historic Buildings Council considers the other protected than similar areas outside the forest. major contributory factors to be the withdrawal of conservation area grants, absence of grant-aid for some types of listed buildings and the failure to appoint specially designated conservation area officers.

n Previous policies and grant conditions, exemption from VAT of new building work but not maintenance work, and the aspirations of owners all favoured rebuilding rather than retention and restoration of unlisted vernacular buildings, resulting in their abandonment and dereliction.

Abandoned house near Ballycastle RKE The slow progress of the Second Survey makes it likely that many potentially list-worthy buildings may be lost before they can be surveyed and n Listed buildings which have an economic use are protected. The visual and historical context of the usually in satisfactory condition, but structures old buildings has been disrupted in some cases by that are more difficult to assimilate to modern new buildings which can take little cognisance of usage often degrade. In 1988, DoE estimated local building traditions or sympathetic siting. there were 1300 abandoned dwellings in the AONB. Many are in need of restoration but some n The considerable archive of the Glens of may be too derelict to restore. The draft PPS14 Antrim Historical Society is not stored in Sustainable Development in the Countryside may climate controlled conditions and is not digitised, help to encourage restoration. catalogued or referenced to the degree the Society would wish.

27 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Current effort n EHS provides funding for the care of monuments through management agreements n Much of the current effort is focused on protection under the following legislation: arranged between the owner and the EHS Field Warden. This may be up to 100% of costs, mostly n the Historic Monuments and Archaeological Objects (NI) Order 1995 with a ceiling of £20,000. The priority for the EHS has been historic churches and their cemeteries. n the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973 and the Historic Monuments and Archaeological The Heritage Lottery Fund also provides funding Objects (NI) Order 1995 which conserves and is a significant opportunity for restoration of archaeological resources within 12 miles of the monuments. coast n EHS will draw up Management Plans or n Article 42 of the Planning (Northern Ireland) conservation statements for a scheduled Order 1991 which protects listed buildings monument where there is a clear need. EHS will also produce management agreements n Conservation practice for monuments is based with the landowners to make improvements on the internationally agreed Burra Charter, where required. EHS stresses the key role that whose main principles are minimal intervention, landowners play in the conservation of the retention of historic fabric, clarity and reversibility. monuments. n EHS maintains a publicly accessible Monuments n EHS and University of Ulster have set up the and Buildings Record. This database has a Centre of Maritime Archaeology at Coleraine. number of subdivisions including: Its aims are to survey the archaeological interest n NI Buildings Database for historic buildings of the maritime environment and train future n Sites and Monuments Record for archaeological maritime archaeologists. sites and historic monuments n Buildings at Risk in NI n The conservation of the historic landscape n the Register of Historic Parks, Gardens and is largely achieved through farming policies Demesnes including cross-compliance for EU subsidies and n the Heritage Gardens Inventory most directly by the agri-environment schemes. n the Maritime Record Farmers can receive scheme support for the n the Defence Heritage Project restoration of stone walls and other traditional field boundaries. Since 2001 nearly 37km of n A number of historic monuments in the AONB boundaries have been restored in the AONB. are in State care – a full list is given at Farmers can also receive area-based payments www.ehsni.gov.uk/statecaremonumentspart2.pdf. as part of their agri-environment scheme for restoring traditional agricultural buildings and for n There are two part time EHS Field Wardens maintaining historic monuments on their farm whose area includes the AONB. The wardens in good condition. Many landowners within the liaise with owners of scheduled monuments but AONB are already participating in this initiative. not non-statutory sites. Their time is limited – each has less than one day a week to cover a large n Care of listed buildings lies jointly with the region, which includes the AONB. EHS also has a Planning Service, EHS and the owners. Grant- staff member dedicated to providing management aid is currently available for higher graded listed advice on historic monuments to landowners buildings. Conservation area grants ceased in participating in agri-environment schemes. This 1998, the funds being reallocated to Townscape person also liaises with Forest Service on the Heritage Initiatives, which are also part-funded by management of monuments within their estate, the Heritage Lottery Fund. and also those in areas where private planting schemes, grant-aided by the Forest Service, are proposed.

28 Historic environment

n EHS is reviewing the stock of listed buildings information on the care and maintenance of by means of a Second Survey, 20% of Northern traditional buildings. EHS and UAHS also publish Ireland having been covered to date. The survey a range of helpful guides for owners of historic aims to assess the historic integrity of our building monuments and buildings. stock, to identify buildings omitted during the First Survey, and eliminate buildings which no longer n The draft PPS14 Sustainable Development in the meet a sufficient number of the listing criteria. Countryside introduced in 2007 aims to control the amount of development in the countryside and protect and enhance the character of rural areas.

n The Planning Service has declared five Conservation Areas within the AONB namely Ballycastle, Cushendun, Cushendall, Carnlough and Glenarm. This designation is intended to protect and enhance the distinctive individual character of these settlements by tighter planning control. The Planning Service has produced conservation area Design Guidance documents for each area. Carnlough Conservation Area RKE n The Ulster Architectural Heritage Society n A Design Guide for Rural Northern Ireland was (UAHS) promotes the restoration of structures produced by the Planning Service in 1994, and one on the Register of Buildings at Risk through specifically for the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB provision of help and advice. A search of the in 1989. Both booklets are in need of substantial on-line data base suggests that sixteen structures updating and revision. New design guides are in the AONB are at risk as of June 2007. UAHS urgently required along the lines of the Cork indicate they will be adding scheduled monuments Rural Design Guide. to the Register in future. n The Glens of Antrim Historical Society is very n Some organisations directly undertake building active with 450 members. They run projects restoration. These include the Hearth Housing concerning the physical and cultural heritage, Association, the National Trust, Irish Landmark including collecting archive material, oral histories Trust and Cushendun Building Preservation Trust. and public participation programmes such as the Tourism has also provided the impetus for the HLF funded clachans project. They produce the restoration of some vernacular buildings. Funding journal ‘The Glynns’ which publishes short articles can be sought by farmers for restoration through on the history and culture of the area. the agri-environment scheme. n The Historic Buildings Council advises the n A number of public awareness initiatives Department of Environment for Northern Ireland have been undertaken by EHS, the National on the listing and delisting of buildings, listed Trust, UAHS and the Cushendun Building building consent, buildings preservation notices Preservation Trust. The most significant of these (spot listing), urgent works to preserve buildings, are the Heritage Open Days which now attract conservation areas and matters of the industrial increasingly large numbers of visitors each and defence heritage. It also offers advice to September. UAHS organises ‘Home and Dry’ other government departments such as DARD, seminars, which provide owners with vital DRD and DCAL.

29 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Cushendun Conservation Area RKE The future for historic environment Our vision for the future is that there will be no Objectives for historic further loss of the historic fabric of the AONB and environment no buildings at risk. All of the scheduled monuments will be in satisfactory to good condition, and all listed n Objective 6 Promote an increased buildings maintained and utilised in a way that is level of public and visitor awareness, sympathetic to their character and their conservation use and enjoyment of the historic requirements. Grant aid will be available to all fabric of the AONB owners of listed buildings, and will be reinstated for buildings within the conservation areas. n Objective 7 Ensure the conservation The non-statutory historic sites and landscape will of scheduled monuments and be conserved through good stewardship of farm and listed buildings forest lands, and the historic character of towns and villages maintained without further degradation. n Objective 8 Protect and conserve the non-designated historic environment8 There will be a professionally run archive and local of the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB history centre within the AONB to capture, store and make accessible the cultural history of the area.

Twenty monuments will be open to the public, who value the historic fabric and understand and support its need for conservation.

30 8 This includes scheduled monuments, listed buildings, conservation areas, un-designated vernacular buildings and structures, historic parks and gardens, marine archaeology, deer parks, industrial and defence heritage. Landscapes, which are by nature historic, are dealt in the Land, coast and sea section. Sustainable communities

The economy is highly dependent on the public Sustainable communities sector, both for employment and economic support. The region is well placed, however, for an increase in he character of the Antrim economic activity having low production costs, EU Coast and Glens is as much the Structural Funds and a well educated workforce. communities who live there as T Tourism is increasingly important as a mainstay of the the physical form of the hills and valleys. economy. The Antrim Coast and Glens have some of These communities, who have been the finest landscapes in the island of Ireland. The area settled here for thousands of years and is of exceptional value for a variety of tourist pursuits from general sightseeing to more active outdoor who derive their livelihoods from the recreation. landscape, have a rich and diversified culture – a product of their close The Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s target is to association with the land, their relative increase visitor numbers to Northern Ireland by 7% annually and tourist income by 9%. It recognises that a isolation in the Glens and on Rathlin balance needs to be struck between economic growth, Island, and their strong traditional link impact on the environment and community support. with nearby Scotland.

The communities of the AONB are varied – consisting of a myriad of small farms and hamlets, coastal villages, and the regional centre of Ballycastle. They also include Long term management aims a small community on Rathlin – Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island. Nearby towns and villages n Develop a greater sense of which have an influence on the AONB are Larne, ownership and local pride within Ballymena, Broughshane and Ballymoney. local communities for the AONB and its values Planning and community policy is determined through the Regional Development Strategy, the Planning Policy n Stimulate economic vibrancy and Statements and current, and emerging, Area Plans. The Antrim Coast and Glens area has a distinctive cultural the development of new enterprises character – a result of its location close to Scotland based on the assets of the area and its relative isolation from the rest of Ireland. Traditionally the communities have had just as strong a n Encourage tourism that draws link with Scotland as with the rest of Ireland. benefit from the natural features of the area Before the coast road was built many of the coastal communities could be connected only by boat. The villages developed distinctive identities and culture, and n Retain and enhance local services strong inter-village rivalry. that are of benefit to both local communities and visitors Northern Ireland generally has low productivity and high unemployment compared with the rest of the n Develop activities that keep alive UK. It relies heavily on low value-added and declining local culture and traditions and help sectors, a relatively large agricultural sector and low to maintain community spirit business creation rate. The economic profile of the AONB is consistent with this overall pattern, although the agricultural and fisheries sector is proportionally stronger with industry and services somewhat weaker.

31 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

There have been significant changes in recent years particularly in pressure for development and increases in property values. The area has become attractive for commuters to Belfast and other centres who are driving up house prices and causing difficulties for local people in affording properties within the community. There has also been a significant decline in local services such as shops, service stations and post offices, together with a loss of older houses for development.

The local economy is under severe pressure in some sectors with farmers needing to find additional Fishing off the Antrim Coast CCGHT incomes and few new jobs created in the community. Many people need to find work outside the area in major centres.

Although tourism is active in the area, tourist stay is short with many passing through the area to the Giant’s Causeway on the Causeway Coastal Route and failing to stop to appreciate its many attractions. Tourism infrastructure is poor, with accommodation, services, facilities and transport not sufficiently well developed for future potential growth. Access to the countryside is also very limited for walking, off-road cycling and horse riding.

There is growing interest in local culture and traditions Lambing on an Antrim farm CCGHT with increased involvement in activities such as music, sport and art. The many festivals that take place in the area are well attended and are collectively a showpiece of local culture.

Livestock market, Cushendall RKE

Curfew Tower, Cushendall village centre CCGHT

32 Sustainable communities

The key features

Planning n The character of the Antrim Coast and Glens has families. Consequently, house values have increased contributed greatly to its designation as an AONB. considerably – there is limited affordable housing for The AONB designation, in turn, has the potential local people. Many people in rural communities in to help the community protect and enhance local the AONB commute to jobs in larger towns, or to distinctiveness and contribute to the pursuit of Belfast. economic viability. Communities n Development is determined and controlled n There are 22,475 people usually resident through the planning system, consisting of the within the AONB, out of a total NI population of Regional Development Strategy (RDS), the Planning 1,685,2679 (1.3%). The people of the AONB are Strategy for Rural Northern Ireland (PSRNI), Planning more likely to have limited access to services, to Policy Statements (PPSs), and Area Plans (see Chapter have access to a car, to own their own households 4 Contexts for more information) – as well as and to work in agriculture and forestry than the supplementary planning guidance. The draft PPS 14 average for NI. They are less likely to be long term Sustainable Development in the Countryside, has a unemployed, to work in manufacturing, to live in strong bearing on development within the AONB. rented accommodation and to have a black or There are 13 other PPSs that are relevant to the ethnic minority background. area which cover issues such as nature conservation, access, archaeology, open space and transport.

New development at Cushendun RKE n There is concern about quarrying in the AONB – it provides jobs and supports the economy, but it also impacts heavily on the landscape. n Design issues for buildings are guided by a Design Guide for Rural Northern Ireland and more specifically a Design Guide for the AONB, produced in 1989 by the Department of Environment. Design guidance is also included in each of the conservation area guidelines. n The area is a popular holiday and weekend destination and there are many second homes and holiday homes in villages (5.66% of households are second homes or holiday accommodation, against an average for NI of 0.76%). The area is seen to be an attractive and safe place to live and bring up families.

Being less than an hour’s travel time from Belfast Cushendall Fairy CCGHT brings the region within easy distance of a large number of high income individuals and

9 All demographic statistics from the Northern Ireland Statistical 33 Research Agency, using Census 2001 data Management Plan 2008 - 2018

n There are many community groups and suspended as it was not commercially viable. There associations in the AONB related to economic have been attempts to offer subsidies for the route development and the pursuit of cultural interests. and further feasibility studies are being undertaken. Many groups belong to the North Antrim Community Network for support. n There are two community transport projects operating in the AONB. They offer accessible door- n There is a rich cultural heritage of oral traditions, to-door and group travel services to community music, crafts, performing arts and visual arts, as groups, older people and people with disabilities, on well as events and sports activities. There is active a non-profit basis. use of languages – Irish and Ulster Scots – as well as English. Many people are involved in musical n Services such as schools, post offices and doctors’ activities – fiddling, harp playing, accordion and surgeries vary in number throughout the area. pipe bands, with traditional music and dance played Generally, access to services is limited and in parts in pubs, bars and community centres. Events and of the AONB is very limited. Moyle, for example, festivals are held throughout the area including is the most deprived district in NI for geographic the Glenarm Festival, the Feis Na nGleann cultural access to services. festival, the Heart of the Glens Festival, the Carnlough Street Fair and Charity Festival, and the n Rathlin Island is the only inhabited offshore ‘Oul Lammas Fair’ in Ballycastle. island in Northern Ireland. In the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries it had a population of over n There is a strong tradition of games and sports 1200. Today it has a thriving community of around including hurling, camogie and gaelic football in 80 people. As an isolated community Rathlin part of the area, as well as rugby and football in Island has relatively limited access to services. The other parts. Sailing and rowing, known as gig racing, introduction of regular ferry services that can carry are popular along the coast and there are rowing cars has greatly enhanced access to and from the competitions and festivals at Carnlough, Cairndhu island and helps to support a sustainable economy. and Glenarm. Traditionally, every village along the coast had a rowing team, and there was great rivalry between villages. The clubs are now part of the All Ireland Rowing Federation. n Public transport services operate throughout the AONB. Irregular and infrequent bus services operate between Ballymena and many of the coastal villages, and between Ballycastle and Larne. The Antrim Coaster bus, the 252, links all the coastal villages with a twice-daily service operating from July to September. There are no fast direct links to the airports, Belfast, Larne or Derry, and no local train service. n A ferry service currently exists between Ballycastle and Rathlin Island. Other services outside the Rathlin Ferry RKE AONB, which bring visitors into the area, operate between Larne and Cairnryan, Troon and Fleetwood and between Belfast and Douglas, Liverpool and Stranraer. From 1997 to 1999, a ferry operated between Ballycastle and Campbeltown but was

34 Sustainable communities

Slemish from Crockandoo Linda Foy

Economy n 96% of registered businesses in Moyle have fewer n Unemployment levels vary from 9.8% in Moyle than 10 employees – no business has more than 50 (the highest in NI) to 2.2% in Larne. Average gross employees. An estimated 5% of all jobs in NI are weekly earnings vary from £240 in Moyle (lowest related to management of the natural and cultural in NI) to £380 in Larne (9th lowest in NI). Low environment. This is equivalent to other regions of earnings reflect the predominance of farming. the UK. There is increasing evidence nationally and Deprivation is high in the AONB, with Larne ranked internationally that environmental improvements can 14th and Moyle 7th in NI. help to support the development of a sustainable economy. n The number of farmers (full and part time) has declined from 1,024 in 2000 to 931 in 2007, a n There are regional food products that are sold reduction of nearly 10%. The number of agricultural locally, nationally and internationally, including Glens holdings has decreased from 863 to 778 over of Antrim potatoes, Glenarm salmon, Glens of the same period. As the land under agricultural Antrim Water, breads and cakes, lobsters caught management has remained the same, this data off the coast, dulse and yellowman. The Food and indicates farms are increasing slightly in size and Cultural Tourism (FaCT) project, funded through employing fewer people – part of the continuing Leader+, provides support to local producers aiming international trend for increasing farm efficiency. products at the tourism market, and facilitates links Over 80% of farms are still categorised as ‘small’ with partners in Waterford and Dorset. (1-2 person businesses) or ‘very small’ (too small to provide full-time employment for one person). n Aquaculture, such as fish farming, provides employment and income in coastal communities where often there are minimal or no alternative employment opportunities. Lobster fishing is an important industry and contributes significantly to the local economy.

35 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Tourism n Grants have been provided to local businesses to n Tourism is vital for the economy of the Antrim provide enhanced accommodation for motorcycle Coast and Glens and Rathlin Island – people are tourism through Leader+. A website (www. attracted by the variety of the landscape, the bikeroadtrip.com) provides routes and lists rugged coastline and beaches, the traditional accommodation to biker tourists. settlements, the dramatic glens, the isolation and tranquillity of Rathlin, and the local culture. Tourism n Marine tourism is forecast to grow steadily over accommodation is largely coastal – the majority are the next few years. Activities such as boating, kite bed and breakfast, and self-catering. There is a hostel flying, kite surfing, surf kayaking, sub-aqua and marine in Ballycastle, but none elsewhere in the AONB, wildlife tourism are increasingly taking place around though there are camping barns at Ballymeamon, the coasts. Kinramer on Rathlin Island and Drumkeerin. Tourism statistics reveal that the Causeway Coast and Glens area attracts 850,000 visitors a year, spending £108m. There are over 200 visiting boat journeys to the coast. Over half of visitors go walking in the area, a third visiting historic buildings. n Outdoor recreation is varied and includes walking, cycling, game angling, rock climbing, sea fishing, sailing and sub-aqua. The narrow rural roads of the AONB are attractive routes for motorists but are much less safe for walkers, cyclists and horseriders, Diving off Rathlin Island Causeway Coast and Glens Ltd especially after dark. This can restrict opportunity for experiencing the AONB in a more n Rathlin Island provides a unique experience in its environmentally sensitive way. A section of the tranquillity and opportunities for walking and bird National Cycle Network passes through the AONB watching, and for its rich traditions of oral history, on the coast road from Ballycastle to Larne and music and storytelling. Over 11,000 people visit the from Broughshane to Glenarm on the Ecos Trail. island every year. A short section from Drains Bay to Carnfunnock Country Park follows a shared footway and cycle path alongside the main road. It is possible also to cycle on the roads within Carnfunnock Country Park. n The Moyle Way and Antrim Hills Way long distance trails cross the AONB and there are walks in Glenariff Forest Park, Carnfunnock Country Park and Breen Forest. There are also many short walks throughout the area around villages, to waterfalls and other places of interest and along the coast. n From 2003 to 2006, the CCGHT delivered the Natural Resource Rural Tourism Initiative (NRRTI). The programme, one of five in Northern Ireland funded under the E.U. Special Support Programme Walking near Torr Head CCGHT for Peace and Reconciliation, provided £2.6m and levered in a further £2m supporting 88 sustainable tourism related projects within the AONB.

36 Sustainable communities

Issues and challenges plan to stay only a short time, many passing quickly through to the Giant’s Causeway. Few tourists take n The current planning system applies a level of protection to the AONB that aims to prevent part in activities other than general sightseeing, widespread development that might harm the walking and cycling. Tourist accommodation is distinctive character of the area. Many people in the declining in the number of bed spaces and there is a community say current restrictions by the planning lack of ‘quality’ hotels in the area. The potential for system prevent them building houses, or extensions, the Giant’s Causeway to disseminate information on their land. Others in the community welcome about the Antrim Coast and Glens is currently the restrictions as they help to maintain the under-exploited. distinctive character of the area. It is clear, though, n Tourism infrastructure – accommodation, services, that there need to be controls on the location, marketing and transport – is uncoordinated and design and size of development within this sensitive has limited integration. There is a perception from landscape. both the community and relevant organisations that there is limited coordination in providing and n There are significant trends in development and the provision of services in communities. House promoting countryside recreation opportunities, prices are rising rapidly – local people have difficulty that shops and restaurants are poorly developed for affording houses in their villages. Older houses the tourism market and that the local environment are being lost from the landscape, replaced by – villages and townscapes, litter management, large, ranch style, properties. These tend to respect public toilets – falls short of meeting international less the existing contours of the land, traditional standards of best practice. There are concerns about orientation of dwellings and local building materials. pollution, including unsafe beaches, polluted river The number of shops and other community facilities systems and litter/fly tipping. Many of these issues is declining – many are being converted to holiday are as relevant on Rathlin Island as they are on the homes and apartments which have greater financial mainland. value for the developer. n There are few outlets for local food products, and little is made of the added value of these products n There is a growing interest in culture and history in the area, and an increase in involvement in cultural sold both to local people and visitors. activities, such as music, language, art and craft n Signage and information for visitors is poor in traditions. However, there is limited funding and places. There is a general lack of information about resources available to support cultural activities, for recreation opportunities. There is poor welcome example to hold classes, events and festivals and to and orientation at Rathlin Island on arrival. provide outputs for local products.

n There is a demand for boat mooring which is n There is a perception amongst some members of anticipated to grow. Although there is little, or the community that the AONB designation prevents no, information about the economic impact of development and stifles economic regeneration. water-based recreation in NI, studies undertaken There is a poor perception of the benefits that the elsewhere in the UK and ROI suggest that visitor AONB may bring. moorings bring valuable income into the local waterside economy10. n Agriculture is currently under severe pressure – farmers need to find supplementary incomes to n Access to the countryside is very limited – survive financially. The agri-environment schemes opportunities are few even on publicly owned land. have provided financial support for farmers adopting Long distance routes are well-catered for but there practices which enhance the heritage values of the are very few short walks and circular walks in the AONB. There are few other jobs available in rural area. There are no official off-road mountain bike areas – particularly industrial, or small business. routes and limited information about mountain biking or cycling in the area. n Tourist stay in the area is relatively short – people do not appreciate the attractions of the area and

10 From Planning Guide for Boating Facilities (RYA and BMF, 2005) 37 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Current effort n The Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust (CCGHT) promotes environmental management and sustainable tourism to help protect and enhance the unique heritage of the Causeway Coast and Glens area. The projects it funded under the Natural Resource Rural Tourism Initiative (NRRTI, 2003-2006), helped to develop sustainable tourism using natural and cultural resources, stimulating rural regeneration within rural areas most disadvantaged by thirty years of unrest. n The Leader and Leader+ programmes, which closed for applications during 2007, supported Rowing festival, Carnlough Irish Coastal Rowing Federation the development of sustainable businesses, and the expanding of existing small businesses. It had a particular focus on maximising economic use of the area’s natural and cultural heritage resources. The Special European Union Programmes Body (SEUPB) has disbursed funds to support sustainable tourism projects including Aquaholics, Predator Boat Charters and Sea Treks. The new Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme (NIRDP) approved for 2007-2013 offers opportunities for significant funding of projects during the lifetime of this plan. n The four constituent councils have ongoing programmes of social and economic development – resulting in support and capacity building, community projects and youth groups, and developing inclusivity, Antrim Hills Way waymarker CAAN particularly for people with disabilities. n The Ulster-Scots Agency funds projects that celebrate the traditional link between Northern Ireland and Scotland including events commemorating King Robert the Bruce. There are many publications about the culture and folklore of the area, and an extensive collection of manuscripts held by the Public Records Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI). n Many of the local community groups are supported by the North Antrim Community Network (NACN). AONB panel, Dungonnell Way RKE n The Housing Executive produces District Housing plans that determine housing need in each of the 26 districts in NI. The Department of Environment has published a Design Guide for the AONB which sets out basic concepts for building design.

38 Sustainable communities

n The Rathlin Island Sustainable Tourism Strategy provides policy for tourism development on the island that recognises the need to be sensitive to its natural and cultural heritage. n The Causeway Coast and Glens Regional Tourism Partnership provides tourism support and marketing services to over 400 tourism-related businesses in the area. n The Natural Resources Rural Tourism Initiative (NRRTI) funded a wide range of projects in the AONB aimed at creating a more peaceful, prosperous and stable society through processes of economic and social renewal. n The Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) has a strategic role in setting policy and strategy for the development of tourism in NI, working in partnership with other bodies such as the Regional Tourism Partnership , CCGHT and other government departments and agencies. The NITB and Tourism Ireland provide marketing and development services for tourism in the area. NITB works closely with local authorities and others on infrastructural and other issues including improving interpretation along the Causeway Coastal Route. n Each of the constituent councils has a tourism section which produces tourism policy and promotional materials.

n The Countryside Access and Activities Network (CAAN) brings together public and private bodies to provide more coordinated and better funded services for outdoor recreation. Each of the constituent councils has a Countryside Access Officer responsible for maintaining and enhancing public access in rural areas.

n Possible funding mechanisms for cultural activities include the Arts Council, the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme and local councils.

Rowing festival, Carnlough Irish Coastal Rowing Federation n Interpretation panels, leaflets and other materials about the AONB and places of interest have been n There are a wide range of initiatives that provided in many car parks. support tourism: n Tourism policy is provided by the Causeway n Outlets for local food products are provided by Coast and Glens Tourism Masterplan 2004-2013. Country Markets NI Ltd, at markets in village halls The Masterplan aims to set new standards in and community centres. Other local product outlets environmental management and sustainable include fairs and festivals. tourism, with tourism interests working closely to create a quality visitor experience, and the whole community benefiting from expected increases in visitor numbers.

39 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Waterfront, Cushendall RKE The future for sustainable communities Objectives for sustainable Our vision for the future is that the Antrim Coast communities and Glens AONB will be a vibrant place to live and work with enhanced access to services, facilities, n Objective 9 Encourage an enhanced jobs and housing for residents. The resident and sense of ownership and respect for the visitor communities will be aware of the special distinctive character of the area amongst characteristics and culture of the area and have an local people and visitors enhanced sense of ownership and local pride. People will be able to live sustainably, maintaining their prosperity without damaging their environment. n Objective 10 Enable vibrant communities to grow sustainably in the The distinctive cultural heritage of the AONB – its Antrim Coast and Glens by stimulating Irish musical traditions, local folklore and poetry, economic prosperity and local culture, and sporting activities including hurling, camogie and maintaining the distinctive character of gaelic football, its arts and crafts, and its traditional the area links with Scotland – will be more widely known and enjoyed, both by its residents and by visitors. n Objective 11 Develop diversity in the Cultural and heritage activities such as the Carnlough rural economy particularly in sectors Festival, the Heart of the Glens Festival, the Lammas outside tourism and land management Fair, and session music in bars, will be thriving and well attended by both residents and visitors. n Objective 12 Provide enhanced access A diversified rural economy with a variety of business to, and employment in, essential services activities supplementing a thriving farming community, in the AONB that are appropriate for will have brought increased social and economic stability people’s lifestyles, including the use of new to local communities, reduced dependency on the technologies, smart delivery, outreach and private car and extended the traditional tourism season. innovation

The AONB will be a tourism destination of n Objective 13 Encourage and stimulate international importance known for its scenic beauty tourism through entrepreneurship and and spectacular coastline, for its culture and traditions investment to provide a quality visitor and for providing a quality visitor experience. A range experience and help support the economy of facilities, services and experiences will be available of the area that encourage people to visit, stay overnight and return for further visits, and also benefit residents.

40 Making it happen Making it happen

Stakeholder meeting RKE

The many layers of administration in the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB from the village committees and local interest groups to regional government departments are important players in managing the resources of the AONB. The Management Plan will help to identify priorities and coordinate this work.

41 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

current work programmes. This would also improve The next steps prospects for increased funding and additional management resources over the Management Plan here are many organisations and period. individuals with an interest in Tthe AONB who are involved in its management, renovation, planning and economic development. They Long term management aims range from village-based organisations, n Establish a mechanism for to regional non-governmental implementing this Management Plan, organisations, through to the various including funding and establishing an Government Departments who have AONB management unit special responsibilities within the AONB. In addition, there are a whole range n Raise awareness of the importance of individuals and businesses whose of the AONB as a notion and a legal designation, from the local community activity helps to shape the AONB and through to senior Government its communities. departments Previous sections describe the great range of activity which has a positive impact on the AONB generated n Establish the funding required to set by these individuals and organisations. However, there up the management and administration is no single entity which is charged with coordinating of the AONB and to implement the and implementing management of the AONB as a unit. Action Plan Prior to this Management Plan, there was no agreed strategy or document which presents the collective view of the stakeholders about how the area should be managed.

With the preparation of a Management Plan for the AONB there is now an opportunity to consider how the AONB should be cared for in the future and the mechanisms that would be needed to achieve this effectively and efficiently.

There are few new resources available for staffing an AONB management unit. Funding for new projects over and above that already committed to current activity is also in short supply. If there is to be a step- change in the quality of management in the AONB, this will need to change. The approach taken in this Plan is therefore firstly to attempt to focus current resources Antrim Coast and Glens AONB Management Group CCGHT on projects which are of a high priority in the AONB, and secondly to seek additional resources for new projects or more aspirational initiatives.

Awareness of the importance of AONBs in Northern Ireland needs to be raised among stakeholder organisations, including Government departments, to promote prioritisation of AONB projects within

42 Making it happen

Cushendall village centre RKE

The key organisations

There is a high level of commitment to the aims n The Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust of the AONB from a wide range of organisations (CCGHT) administers the Antrim Coast and Glens and individuals, and a deep understanding of the AONB Management Group and coordinates the landscape, culture and community values of the production and implementation of the AONB areas. Certain partnerships and organisations with Management Plan. It is the key organisation for an interest in the AONB are key: coordinating the management, interpretation and promotion of the Antrim Coast and Glens, n The AONB Management Group is the partnership producing information and interpretation for of organisations that coordinates the management the AONB, including a twice-yearly newsletter, a of the AONB. It meets quarterly. The Management website and a collection of leaflets and guides. It has Group partners have a variety of interests and developed and led a number of programmes in the responsibilities in the management of the AONB, area including the NRRTI, interpretation projects and some, including the councils, have active and management schemes. CCGHT core funding projects and programmes. Many partners and is provided by the 7 constituent local authorities, other organisations have produced strategies and the NITB and the EHS. Funding is provided on a plans that determine policy for aspects of AONB fixed term and requires negotiation for renewal. management. Often these are cross-referenced and Long term funding is therefore uncertain. NITB will joined-up, but sometimes are not. Prioritisation and withdraw core funding after March 2008 which will synergy between policies is not always maximised. leave the Trust with a significant funding shortfall unless other funding can be secured.

43 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

n The Environment and Heritage Service (EHS), n The Countryside Access and Activities Network an agency within the Department of Environment, (CAAN) supports groups, organisations and designates and promotes AONBs and encourages associations providing outdoor recreation services and contributes to their management. It provides throughout NI, and accesses funding to improve funding through a variety of organisations working delivery. in the AONB, including CCGHT. EHS implements policy regarding nature conservation and built and n The Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB), historic heritage conservation, and are consulted an agency within DETI, is the official body for by the Planning Service as part of the process for developing, promoting and marketing Northern producing planning policy for nature conservation. Ireland. The EHS contributes Natural Heritage grant aid for projects related to the management and promotion n The Forest Service, an agency within DETI, owns of the AONB. and manages extensive areas of forest within the AONB. They also shape forest policy and administer n The Northern Ireland Planning Service, an agency grants for new planting and managing established within the Department of Environment, regulates woodlands. development and the use of land. Its responsibilities include preparing planning policy, development plans n The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure and supplementary planning. (DCAL) is the government department responsible for arts and creativity, museums, libraries, sport and n The Department of Agriculture and Regional fisheries. Development (DARD) provides funding through agri-environment schemes to encourage farmers n The Historic Buildings Council (HBC) provides to adopt environmentally friendly management advice to the Department of Environment on the practices. The schemes are co-funded by the listing of buildings, the designation of conservation European Union. They also manage a wide range areas and the preservation of buildings of special of schemes to enhance countryside management architectural or historic interest. and wellbeing through the Rural Development Programme. DARD sets much of the policy n The Historic Monuments Council (HMC) acts as framework for land and agricultural management. a statutory advisor to be consulted on, and endorse, EHS proposals on the scheduling of monuments. n The four constituent councils – Moyle, Ballymoney, Ballymena and Larne – have a wide range of social, n The Council for Nature Conservation and the environmental and economic development services Countryside (CNCC) is the statutory advisor to the that impact on the AONB. Department of Environment for Northern Ireland on matters affecting nature conservation and the n The Causeway Coast and Glens Regional Tourism countryside. Partnership provides a marketing and development service for tourism related businesses in the area, n The Ulster Architectural and Heritage Society and produces tourism marketing materials. (UAHS) promotes the appreciation and enjoyment of architecture from the prehistoric to the present, n The National Trust, Ulster Wildlife Trust and the and to encourage its preservation and conservation. RSPB own and manage land within the AONB for conservation purposes. n The Ulster Farmers’ Union represents the many farmers and landowners in the area. n The North Antrim Community Network (NACN) supports community groups and associations and accesses funding for community-led initiatives. Glenarm church and harbour RKE

44 Making it happen

Boardwalk at Glenariff Forest Park – a well used recreation facility RKE

Management Plan will help to target issues, sites Issues and challenges or areas within the AONB for the DARD budget funding implementation. n The management of the AONB as an entity is substantially under-funded and under-resourced. n The Programme for Government, which is The CCGHT, potentially a co-ordinator body for the Northern Ireland Assembly’s programme for the AONB, has three staff and has responsibility for Government spending (2008 – 2011) was announced three AONBs. By contrast, most AONBs in England in early 2008. The programme highlights the key and Wales have a dedicated staff unit each, with goals and actions the Executive will take to drive upwards of five staff. forward five key strategic priorities, which include ‘to grow a dynamic, innovative economy’ and ‘to n With limited resources available, the coordination protect and enhance our environment and natural of management activity is inadequate, including resources’. The programme is accompanied by a practical management work, promotion, budget which details proposed public spending, and interpretation and sustainable tourism development. also highlights the importance of the private and social economy sectors. n The central conservation organisations have limited capacity of financial and staff resources. n Larne Borough Council and Moyle District For example EHS Conservation Designations and Council are together funding a BAP Officer who Protection section has £400K for ASSI management would cover a significant area of the AONB. The grants for the whole of NI, 75% of which is BAP Officer’s role would be complementary to the committed to long term agreements. agri-environment schemes, addressing biodiversity issues outside farms or in areas where landowners n Agri-environment schemes have the largest do not wish to enter a scheme. They could also form budgets and the greatest capacity for land a conduit for EHS grants that are available (the BAP management. They also have the best network links Officers are at least part funded by EHS) and also with the farming community. The AONB tap in to other sources such as Landfill or HLF.

45 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Implementing the Plan n undertake awareness-raising, communication and The AONB Management Group, through its member education activities organisations, is the key delivery mechanism for this n work closely with, and influence the work of, Management Plan. It will oversee implementation other organisations at the local and regional level to of the Management Plan and monitor progress with put the well being of the AONB at the core of their the delivery of its actions. The CCGHT currently strategies, plans and actions (as of 2008) has a major role in coordinating many of the actions and is the principal adviser to the n work closely with the community, and community Management Group. organisations such as the North Antrim Community Network and its partners, to initiate A key recommendation of this plan is to establish projects and activities at the community level an Antrim Coast and Glens AONB Management Unit dedicated specifically to the implementation of Two items of legislation that operate in England the plan, working alongside, or within the structure and Wales – the National Parks and Access to the of, the Heritage Trust. This unit would emulate Countryside Act (1949) and the Countryside and similar structures found within most of the AONBs Rights of Way (CRoW) Act (2000) – give statutory in England and Wales, which are funded by either protection to AONBs through the planning system. Natural England or the Countryside Council for The CRoW Act also requires the preparation of Wales, together with local councils. The units range Management Plans for AONBs and places a duty in size but generally include a manager (AONB of regard on ‘relevant authorities’ to the purposes Officer) and staff responsible for project work, of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty of communications and specialist activities such as AONBs. These aspects of protection are absent in biodiversity and heritage management. It is proposed Northern Ireland – there is no statutory protection that the Unit should seek funding for, and appoint, of AONBs and no requirement to produce plans to a Biodiversity Officer and a Heritage Environment guide their management. If many of the issues and Officer specifically to implement key actions in the challenges that are facing AONBs in Northern Ireland Management Plan. are to be tackled effectively in the long term there is a need to enhance the statutory basis for AONBs in All the AONBs in England and Wales administer a line with other areas within the United Kingdom. Sustainable Development Fund that helps to fund small scale projects on environmental management and social and economic development. All these projects have sustainability at their core. It should be the aim of the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB Management Group to secure and administer a Objectives for the next steps similar scheme. n Objective 14 Establish a mechanism for The role of an Antrim Coast and Glens AONB the effective implementation of the AONB Management Unit would be to: Management Plan n coordinate the implementation of the Management Plan n Objective 15 Raise awareness of and support for the AONB among stakeholder n secure and allocate grants and funding – for organisations example, a Sustainable Development Fund

n Improve funding streams n develop partnerships and co-operative programmes Objective 16 for AONB management structures and projects n undertake project work, particularly in biodiversity and heritage management issues, as specified in the Action Plan

46 Making it happen

Carnlough harbour RKE Management Plan monitoring

Monitoring and review An important element of the Management Planning process is being able to measure the achievement of the Plan, and more importantly, the impact of its objectives and actions. In developing this Plan, a range of datasets were compiled which helped to provide an evidence base for the visions and objectives. Much more still needs to be done to add to this evidence and a key task is to research and adopt baseline information for the AONB’s key resources.

Table 1 in the accompanying Action Plan sets out specific actions aimed at achieving the objectives and, ultimately, the Vision for the AONB. These actions are targeted and measurable and will be used to monitor progress wherever possible.

Monitoring of the Plan’s implementation will be coordinated by the AONB Management Group and undertaken by its partners. It is the recommendation of this Plan that annual reports are produced and made publicly available and that the action programme is reviewed and updated regularly to reflect new Glenariff Forest Park NITB initiatives and actions proposed by partners. Table 2 in the Action Plan summarises the responsibilities of partners in helping to deliver this Plan.

47 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Contexts

this plan. 19 View over Fairhead to Rathlin Island CCGHT Management Plan context

Management Plan context The overall approach, together with the objectives and actions contained within this plan, follow The planning policy framework closely the strategic objectives laid out in the ‘Rural The Management Plan is a non-statutory document Northern Ireland’ section of the Strategy. which presents recommendations for land management and economic development in the Planning Policy Statements AONB. It sits alongside a framework of planning Planning Policy Statements (PPS) contain policies on policy for Northern Ireland and reflects many of the land-use and other planning matters for the whole policies and guidance for development in the Region. of Northern Ireland. They set out the main planning considerations that the Department of Environment Regional Development Strategy takes into account in assessing proposals for The regional planning framework is the Regional development and preparing development plans. Development Strategy for Northern Ireland (RDS), The PPS’s, together with other planning policies entitled ‘Shaping the Future’. The Strategy guides contained within the documents described below, the future development of Northern Ireland to 2025 offer protection from harmful development that to meet the needs of the Region with a population might adversely affect the rural character of its setting. fast approaching 2 million. The vision of the Strategy is to ‘…create an outward-looking, dynamic and n The relevant Planning Policy Statements that help liveable Region and to sustain a high quality of life to protect the AONB and its resources include: for all’11. The Strategy has a recurring theme of n A Planning Strategy for Rural Northern Ireland sustainability alongside a strong emphasis on social n PPS 1: General Principles cohesion and economic progress. n PPS 2: Planning and Nature Conservation n PPS 3: Access, Movement and Parking Central to the Strategy is the Spatial Development n PPS 6: Planning, Archaeology and the Built Heritage Strategy which aims to promote balanced and n PPS 7: Quality Residential Environments integrated growth in urban and rural areas, to n PPS 7s: Addendum Residential Extensions enhance equality of opportunity and offer the choice and Alterations to meet the varied needs of a divided society. The n PPS 8: Open Space, Sport and Outdoor Recreation aim of the Strategy is ‘…to develop an attractive n PPS 11: Planning and Waste Management and prosperous rural area, based on a balanced and n PPS 12: Housing in Settlements integrated approach to the development of town, n PPS 13: Transportation and Land Use village and countryside, in order to sustain a strong n PPS 14: Draft Sustainable Development in and vibrant rural community and economy, and to the Countryside conserve and enhance the environment’. n PPS 15: Planning and Flood Risk n PPS 17: Control of Outdoor Advertisements The Strategy sees the key regional challenges as to: n PPS 18: Draft Renewable Energy n accommodate future development growth while protecting and caring for the environment n reduce the consumption of resources n continue to maintain or, where needed, to improve the quality of air, water and land resources within the Region n seek to maintain local landscape character and to conserve cultural assets n take particular care to sustain and, where required, to enhance the biodiversity of the Region, its natural habitats, high quality landscapes and built heritage Heathland on Garron Plateau RKE

11 Shaping the Future, Regional Development Strategy for Northern 49 Ireland 2025, Department for Regional Development, 2001 Management Plan 2008 - 2018

Fishing from Cushendun beach RKE

Area Plans Other guidance Area Plans are the next tier of planning document The ‘Design Guide for Rural Northern Ireland’ below the RDS. Their aim is to guide development offers guidance to anyone wanting to build in the in conformity with the RDS. The existing plans are countryside. Its purpose is to improve the quality of the North East Area Plan (2002), the Ballymena Area design and to help ensure that new buildings fit into Plan (1986 – 2001), the Larne Area Plan (2010) and the landscape. There is also design guidance for the the two emerging Area Plans – the draft Northern AONB – Design Guide for the Antrim Coast and Area Plan (2016) and the draft Antrim, Ballymena Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – and and Larne Area Plan (2016). The draft Northern more detailed design guides for the conservation Area Plan which covers much of the north area areas of Ballycastle, Cushendun, Cushendall, of the AONB for the four districts of Ballymoney, Carnlough and Glenarm. Coleraine, Limavady and Moyle was produced in May 2005. The draft for the plan that covers the south area of the AONB, the Antrim, Ballymena and Larne Area Plan, is due to be published for consultation during 2008.

The Area Plans seek to protect rural areas through the designation of Green Belt and Countryside Policy Areas. The AONB is designated as a Countryside Policy Area (CPA) within the draft Northern Area Plan. The aim of CPA designation is to protect and enhance the unique landscape character.

50 Thanks and acknowledgements Glossary

Thanks Key to abbreviations Many organisations and individuals have been AONB Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty involved in the preparation of this Management ASSI Area of Special Scientific Interest Plan, including members of the AONB Management BAP Biodiversity Action Plan BC Borough Council Group, members of the community, community CAAN Countryside Access and Activities Network group leaders, representatives of the partner and CCGHT Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust stakeholder organisations and elected members of CCGRTP Causeway Coast and Glens Regional constituent councils. Our thanks go to all who have Tourism Partnership participated in this process. CEDaR Centre for Environmental Data and Recording (at the Ulster Museum) The Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust CMF Coastal and Marine Forum provides a secretariat service for the Antrim CNCC Council for Nature Conservation and Coast and Glens AONB Management Group. the Countryside CPA Countryside Policy Area The Trust is grateful for support from Ballymena CVNI Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland Borough Council, Ballymoney Borough Council, DARD Department for Agriculture and Rural Development Coleraine Borough Council, Larne Borough Council, DC District Council Limavady Borough Council, Moyle District Council, DCAL Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure Newtownabbey Borough Council, Environment and DETI Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment Heritage Service and Northern Ireland Tourist Board. DoE Department of Environment DRD Department of Regional Development Funding EHS Environment and Heritage Service EU European Union The preparation and production of this plan was GAHS Glens of Antrim Historical Society funded by the Environment and Heritage Service of GIS Geographic Information System the Department of Environment, through a grant to HBC Historic Buildings Council the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust. HLF Heritage Lottery Fund HMC Historic Monuments Council AONB Management Group ICZM Integrated Coastal Zone Management Membership: MOSS Management of Sensitive Sites MSP Marine Spatial Planning n Moyle District Council NACN North Antrim Community Network n Ballymoney Borough Council NI Northern Ireland n Ballymena Borough Council NIRDP Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme n Larne Borough Council NITB Northern Ireland Tourist Board n Ulster Farmers Union NNR National Nature Reserve n Causeway Coast and Glens Ltd NRRTI Natural Resources Rural Tourism Initiative n North Antrim Community Network NT National Trust n National Trust PPS Planning Policy Statement PRONI Public Records Office for Northern Ireland n Ulster Wildlife Trust RKE Red Kite Environment n Royal Society for the Protection of Birds PSNI Police Service of Northern Ireland RoI Republic of Ireland Advisers: RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Birds n Northern Ireland Tourist Board SAC Special Area of Conservation n Department of Agriculture and Rural Development SEUPB Special European Union Programmes Body Countryside Management SLNCI Site of Local Nature Conservation Importance n Environment and Heritage Service SoE State of the Environment Report n Planning Service SM Scheduled Monument SPA Special Protection Area n Department of Regional Development TI Tourism Ireland Roads Service UAHS Ulster Architectural Heritage Society n Causeway Coast and Glens Regional UFU Ulster Farmers Union Tourism Partnership UWT Ulster Wildlife Trust

51 Antrim Coast and Glens AONB Management Group Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust Tilly Molloy’s 18 Main St Armoy Ballymoney County Antrim Northern Ireland BT53 8RQ Tel: 028 2075 2100 Fax: 028 2075 2101 Email: [email protected]

The Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust provides a secretariat service for the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB. The Trust is grateful for support from Ballymena Borough Council, Ballymoney Borough Council, Coleraine Borough Council, Larne Borough Council, Limavady Borough Council, Moyle District Council, Newtownabbey Borough Council, Environment and Heritage Service and Northern Ireland Tourist Board

This Management Plan is also available online at www.ccght.org This document can be made available on request in alternative formats, computer disk and pdf formats

The preparation and production of this Management Plan was funded by the Environment and Heritage Service

Prepared for the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust on behalf of the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB Management Group by Red Kite Environment and ELP

Date of publication: June 2008

Designed by Touchwood Design Tel 01837 659222