Record year for beach and marina awards in Mid and East Antrim

Three beaches and three marinas in the Mid and East Antrim area have been awarded for excellence.
Carrick Marina. INCT 03-053-tcCarrick Marina. INCT 03-053-tc
Carrick Marina. INCT 03-053-tc

The accolades, announced by Keep North Ireland Beautiful, were for facilities, environmental management, environmental education, accessibility and safety.

The internationally renowned Blue Flag has been awarded to three of Mid and East Antrim’s marinas - Carrickfergus, Glenarm and Portglenone - during the 2020 season.

The Blue Flag award is certified by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and is delivered in 47 participating countries.

In 2020 Blue Flags have been awarded to 4,664 beaches, marinas and boats worldwide.

Beach and marina operators receiving a Blue Flag are demonstrating their commitment to protecting the coastal environment, excellent water quality, safety, and providing access for all.

Three beaches in Mid and East Antrim; Brown’s Bay, Ballygally and Carnlough, have also received the prestigious Seaside Award in 2020.

The Seaside Award is the national standard for beaches across the UK. The programme ensures visitors of a clean, safe, attractive and well-managed beach with the facilities provided being appropriate for the location of the beach.

The Blue Flag and Seaside Awards may only be flown if all the criteria are successfully met and maintained throughout the summer season.

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston, said: “This is fantastic news for the borough. The Causeway Coastal Route is well known for its stunning beaches and to be recognised with these awards is fantastic. Council staff are dedicated to improving the quality of our beaches and marinas and I’m delighted this work has been recognised in this way.”