Carrick Castle to beshowcased overseas

A regional manager has been appointed to work within the Council areas of Mid and East Antrim and Causeway Coast

and Glens. Priorities include the proposed re-branding of the visitor information centre which is now located at Carrick Castle.

The new regional manager Brenda Murphy will advise on the medium and longterm development of the medieval fortress.

Meanwhile, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Economic Growth and Tourism Committee has been considering the possible refurbishment and reuse of the former warrant officer’s house, formerly the caretaker’s residence at Carrick Town Hall,and jail cells.

Previously, Antrim County Gaol was located at the Antrim Street town hall site.

Speaking after the meeting, committee chairman Councillor Billy Ashe said: “It is absolutely vital that Mid and East Antrim has its own tourism brand.

“It is about bringing tourism attractions in Larne, Carrick and Ballymena under one banner.”

The new regional manager will also assist with the reopening of the “Gobbin’s Project”, in Islandmagee, as well as the development of a “St Patrick’s/Slemish product”.

These priority actions will be incorporated within Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s 2017-18 business plan for the tourism section.

The recently appointed Causeway Coastal Route Regional Manager will act as a strategic advisor within the Tourism Section of the Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism Directorate.

She commenced co-location with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council at Smiley Buildings, Larne, on January 10.

The Tourism Northern Ireland staff member will advise and assist the work of the council’s Tourism Section.