Path to success as Gobbins wins planning award

The Gobbins cliff path was awarded ‘Excellence in Planning for the Natural Environment’ at the recent Royal Town Planning Institute Awards in Belfast.

The RTPI Awards highlight exceptional examples of planning and celebrate the contribution that planners and planning make to society.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Billy Ashe said he was “delighted” to see the Islandmagee attraction receive such recognition.

He added: “Whilst it was originally constructed in 1902, today’s environmental priorities meant that the restoration had to address these aspects thoroughly in order to deliver a sustainable end product.

“Therefore, the success can be attributed not only to the vision and quality of the development but also to a continuous process of dialogue with the many stakeholders involved in the project.

“We’re keen that through these new partnerships, we will continue to work together to drive forward the future of the Gobbins, for many new generations to enjoy.”

Duty manager, Jamie Withers said the achievement would help bolster the “phenomenal success” the Gobbins has experienced since its opening earlier this year.

He added: “It has been developed and engineered to a world-class standard, whilst sympathetic to the natural landscape.

“As a result, we have been able to offer the public an exhilarating walk that unlocks more wonders with every season.”

The Gobbins cliff path was opened this summer at a cost of £7.5m.