Blackhead Path reopens after extensive restoration project

The multi-million pounds project involved repairs in stages over the last year.

The scheme covered four main areas along the coastal path from the Old Castle Road up to the lighthouse including extensive rock armour protection, new steps and handrails and scaling, fixing and netting of rocks.

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston, has welcomed the reopening of the path.

“We are delighted that the essential multi million pound works at Blackhead Path has completed.

“This stunning walk will now be enjoyed by our local community and tourists. Whitehead is a stunning town with lots of eateries, shops, arts events and beautiful scenery to explore, and the completion of the works will only add to the wonderful town that it is.

“These important works have restored the path to its former glory which we know will allow generations of families to enjoy. The stunning coastal walk is not only an essential part of life for locals in Whitehead, but one of this area’s biggest tourism assets.

“We are delighted to reopen Blackhead Path and I would also like to thank the patience from the local community throughout the duration of the work.”

A spokesperson from the Blackhead Path Preservation Society, said: “The Society and Whitehead Community are delighted that the historic Blackhead Path is reopening to the public.

“Our seaside path, with its stunning location and iconic lighthouse, has been greatly missed, and its reopening will be a great asset to Whitehead residents and our many visitors.

“The opening will also come as a welcome boost to local businesses with the easing of lockdown post Covid-19.

“The long term security of the path will be a major boost to the Whitehead community, and we would like to thank Mid and East Antrim Council for their determination and hard work to ensure its reopening.”

The contractor, FP McCann, was appointed following extensive investigatory and design work by AECOM.

Russell Eddis, civil engineering business manager for FP McCann Ltd, said: “With the assistance of some local specialist sub-contractors and a variety of material taken from our nearby Loughside Quarry, the team at FP McCann thoroughly enjoyed working on this restoration project.

“Now the Blackhead coastal pathway project is complete, the full extent of this extremely popular walking destination can be enjoyed once again by visitors from Northern Ireland and further afield.”

The path reopened to the public today (Wednesday, July 8).

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