Carnfunnock Country Park to close temporarily for £6.1m redevelopment

Carnfunnock Country Park will close temporarily to facilitate a transformative multi-million-pound redevelopment project.

The extensive works – led by McKelvey Construction – will start this summer, marking the beginning of a new chapter for one of the Borough’s most cherished outdoor destinations.

The redevelopment is being delivered through funding from the UK Government, with £6.1m secured to revitalise the 191-acre site along the stunning Causeway Coastal Route.

This ambitious project will see the creation of a state-of-the-art visitor centre, a fully inclusive adventure play park, new amenity facilities for caravan park visitors and a bike park, among many other improvements.

The investment will significantly enhance the park’s facilities and accessibility, ensuring it continues to attract residents and visitors alike for generations to come.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said the project would be a game-changer for the local area and beyond.

“Carnfunnock Country Park is a jewel in Mid and East Antrim’s crown, providing us with a fantastic outdoor space for everyone,” he said.

“This redevelopment is a major step forward for our community as it will not only enhance the park itself but also provide an economic boost for tourism and local businesses.

“The contribution from the UK Government will help drive renewed growth and prosperity and futureproof the site for years to come.”

Key features of the Carnfunnock Redevelopment Project include:

• New Visitor Centre: Featuring a reception area, shop, café with stunning coastal views, and indoor/outdoor seating.
• Adventure Play Park: Fully inclusive and accessible play areas offering fun for children of all abilities.
• Bike Park: Including a pump track and jump trail for older children and adults.
• Maze Viewing Platform: An elevated structure to enhance views over the iconic maze, complete with seating.
• Modern Amenity Block: New toilets, changing facilities for the caravan park and toilets and a coffee dock.
• Enhanced Infrastructure: Improved paths, wayfinding signage, accessible routes, traffic calming measures, and improved drop off and car parking facilities. 

UK Minister for Local Growth, Alex Norris, adds:

“This is an exciting and ambitious project for Mid and East Antrim. Carnfunnock Country Park is an asset for the community, but in need of transformation to make it fit for the future.

“This multi-million pound regeneration will ensure visitors and the community, across all generations, can benefit from new attractions and more accessible facilities while boosting local growth for the wider area.”

The park facilities closed on 6 July to allow construction works to begin, following a successful planning and procurement process.

Following the public consultation process, infrastructure has been put in place to ensure pedestrian access will remain available throughout the redevelopment period.

Visitors are encouraged to use parking facilities at Drains Bay or Carnfunnock Bay, with toilets also available at Drains Bay during the closure.

The redevelopment of Carnfunnock Country Park is a cornerstone in Mid and East Antrim’s ongoing commitment to enhancing green spaces, promoting tourism and supporting local communities.

Originally opened in 1990, Carnfunnock has long been a haven for families, nature lovers and tourists.

This revitalisation will ensure it continues to offer memorable experiences – enriched by new attractions and modern facilities – for years to come.