The landscape partnership, involving 13 projects, will improve the management and resilience of the landscape, habitats and species.

It plans to highlight the role the landscape has played, and continues to play, in defence heritage on a global scale. The area is home to defence features dating from the Napoleonic period to the present day.

Inclusive access

The landscape is unique in Northern Ireland as the only place that provides for land, water and air-based activities close together.

Surfers, walkers, anglers and cyclists share the spectacular scenery with hang gliders and fixed wing gliders of the Ulster Gliding Club.

The landscape partnership provides an opportunity to establish the area as a visitor destination with improved access for these diverse activities, while ensuring the varied and special landscape remains protected.

A strong governance model

The partnership has been recognised for its effective management, which consists of a Project Board, made up of key partners, and an advisory group for each core theme drawn from the wider partnership pool.

Sharon Archer, Senior Investment Manager at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “All interests are embodied in the governance model which brings together a strong blend of technical, statutory, business and community expertise. The approach to include local consultation during the development phase has paid dividends in the delivery phase, as evidenced by good community engagement and high participation levels in events across all aspects of the scheme.”

The partnership aims to deliver community-led initiatives including training opportunities. It is working with local farmers and landowners to improve management and resilience of the land.

Find out more about the Binevenagh and Coastal Lowlands Landscape Partnership Scheme.