Delivered by the Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust (CCGHT) on behalf of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council (CCGBC), the Nature and Environment project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). PEACEPLUS is co-funded by the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive, under the Building Peaceful and Thriving Communities investment area

Facilitated by Becky Cole of Broughgammon Farm, the project began in September 2025 and involved Key Stage 1 pupils from Bushmills Primary School and Gaelscoil an Chaistil, Ballycastle.

Over the course of the programme, children explored where food comes from, how it is grown, and the role farming plays in local heritage, sustainability and community life. Through regular visits to Broughgammon Farm, pupils took part in hands-on activities in farming, gardening, cooking and environmental learning.

Each child kept a seasonal project journal, recording their learning throughout the year. Activities included learning about farm life and seasonal cycles, pumpkin picking and baking, preserving the harvest, indoor growing during winter months, and developing growing plots at Bushmills Community Garden and Gaelscoil an Chaistil ahead of spring planting.

As the project progressed, pupils also explored topics including seeds, meadows, lambing, the life cycle from egg to chick, native plants, soil health, flowers and bees.

A highlight of the programme was the Tales and Tatties event held at Bushmills Courthouse in March, where pupils explored the cultural journey of the potato in Ireland and India through cooking, storytelling and creative activities. The session highlighted how food can connect cultures while deepening understanding of local and global food traditions and sustainable farming.

The project concluded with a celebratory picnic at Broughgammon Farm, where pupils sampled farm produce, enjoyed a bread-making demonstration by Ciara O’Hartghaile, and took part in a farm tour reflecting on their experiences and achievements.

A spokesperson for PEACEPLUS said:  “Projects such as Sow Grow Eat demonstrate the value of creating opportunities for young people to learn together, build connections and explore shared experiences through food, culture and sustainability. Causeway Coast & Glens PEACEPLUS is proud to support the initiatives that help build peaceful and thriving communities.” 

Speaking after the event, Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust Project Officer Tiérna Mullan said: “Sow Grow Eat has been a fantastic opportunity for children to engage with nature, farming and food production in a meaningful way. Using a local working farm gave pupils a unique hands-on learning experience and helped them connect with local food heritage and sustainable farming practices. Throughout the year, they showed great enthusiasm and curiosity, building skills, confidence and friendships. The celebratory picnic was a wonderful way to recognise their achievements and thank everyone involved.”

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The Causeway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic protected landscapes, stretching along the north coast of County Antrim. It is recognised for its dramatic scenery, including cliffs, beaches, and internationally significant geological features such as the Giant’s Causeway, alongside rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and a living rural landscape shaped by local communities.

The plan sets out a shared vision to safeguard the area’s exceptional natural, built, and cultural heritage, while supporting its sustainable use and enjoyment for future generations. Key priorities include protecting wildlife habitats and landscapes, conserving historic and cultural assets, and maintaining the ecological balance that underpins the AONB’s special character.

A strong emphasis is placed on sustainability, with the plans encouraging responsible tourism, land management, and community engagement. Local communities, visitors, tourism operators, and agricultural businesses all play a key role in promoting stewardship of the landscape and supporting its long-term resilience.

The Management Plan also strengthens coordination between stakeholders, including government agencies, conservation bodies, and local partners, ensuring a more joined-up approach to protecting and enhancing the AONB.

Aligned with statutory policy, the plans provide a framework to guide decision-making, support best practice, identify challenges and solutions, inform project development, and assist with funding applications.

Together, the Management Plan and Action Plan provide a clear roadmap for protecting the Causeway Coast AONB and ensuring its outstanding landscapes and heritage continue to be valued and enjoyed for generations to come.

To download the Management Plan click here

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Footsteps of Giants was a fun and inspiring partnership project led by Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust and Cyngor Gwynedd, bringing together Primary 6 pupils from Portrush Primary School in Northern Ireland and Ysgol Gynradd Llanllyfni in Wales.

Although separated by the Irish Sea, the pupils connected through a hybrid programme of online workshops, shared activities, and virtual exchanges, allowing them to explore and learn together from their own classrooms. The project linked two spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland, and the Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales – through the shared myths and legends of giants.

Over five interactive online workshops and a local visit to the Giant’s Causeway for the Portrush pupils, children became giant hunters, storytellers, scientists, musicians, and heritage explorers. They discovered fascinating geology and wildlife, investigated rocks and habitats, created giant-inspired artwork, composed and performed a project song, explored the colourful world of lichen, and uncovered the stories hidden in local placenames, ports, and coastal traditions.

Along the way, pupils shared their discoveries with their partner school, compared their landscapes and cultures, and built new friendships across the Irish Sea. By connecting two World Heritage Sites through creativity, curiosity, and storytelling, the project helped bring these remarkable places to life in a memorable and meaningful way.

This newsletter celebrates the highlights, achievements, and adventures of the Footsteps of Giants project and showcases what the pupils discovered on their journey.

Read the project newsletter here: Footsteps of Giants Newsletter

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National Walking Month takes place every year throughout May encourages people to walk more as a simple, powerful way to improve their physical health, mental wellbeing, and connect with their neighbours. The campaign reports that people who walk regularly reflect being happier and less anxious and have a stronger sense of community when walking.

Walking for All is led by Outscape and delivered across Northern Ireland in partnership with eight local councils in Northern Ireland and 6 Local Sports partnerships across the border counties of Ireland. The programme aims to engage over 14,000 people in accessible, led walking activities over three years building healthier, more connected rural communities and helping to address social isolation, inactivity and support mental health.

Since its launch in Mid & East Antrim Borough Council’s area, Walking for All is already making a difference. Caitriona Murray Tait, Walking for All Officer, has been working with local communities to establish free, welcoming walking groups right on people’s doorsteps, which are led by trained, Walk Leaders from within those communities. The walks take place every week, and last from 10 minutes to 1 hour, and are open to adults of all ages and abilities.

Commenting ahead of National Walking Month, Caitriona said: “National Walking Month is the perfect moment for anyone in Mid & East Antrim to take that first step with us. Our walks are completely free, they happen every week, right in your own community and they’re open to everyone, whatever your age or ability.

“What I love most about our walks is seeing people grow in confidence week by week – whether it’s getting out for some fresh air, improving their fitness, or simply enjoying the connection with others.  It’s such a simple mix of movement, fresh air and community but it really makes a difference. I’d love to see more people join us this May.”

Gareth Moore, Head of Participation, for Outscape and Walking for All added: “We hope National Walking Month inspires people right across Mid & East Antrim to step out and discover what Walking for All is all about. Walking for All walks are completely free, they happen every week in the heart of your community, and they are genuinely open to everyone, whatever your background or ability – including those walking and wheeling. We’d love to see more people join us this May.”

Walks are already taking place every week in Mid & East Antrim led by trained Walk Leaders from the local community. All walks are free to attend no special equipment is required. During May, people are encouraged to search for walks in their local area and register via www.walkingforall.com

Caitriona is also currently offering free Walk Leader training for anyone interested in making a difference in their community by helping others to get active. Walk Leaders receive full support and training, and no previous experience is required.

To search for a walk, register for the programme or find out how to become a Walk Leader, visit www.walkingforall.com

PEACEPLUS is co-funded by the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.

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Designed to improve health and well-being in rural communities by making walking more accessible, enjoyable, and social for everyone to explore and participate in, Walking for All, will deliver short, regular walks in local community spaces. The programme is open to adults, regardless of age, background, or ability. By fostering a focus on connection, inclusion, and well-being, Walking for All will seek to build sustainable, healthy communities and address issues such as social isolation, wellbeing and inactivity.

The programme is being delivered by Outscape in partnership with 15 partner organisations across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, including 8 local authorities, the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust and 6 Local Sports Partnerships. Sport Ireland, Mountaineering Ireland (Get Ireland Walking), and the Public Health Agency are associate partners. Locally this project is being led by a Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust Walking for All Officer who will support the development of these walking groups across the Mid & East Antrim Borough Council area, working closely with local communities

Sixteen dedicated Walking for All Officers have already been recruited and will lead the programme as well as train Walk Leaders, supporting the creation of nearly 600 walking groups and engaging thousands in regular, social walks over the next three years.

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir MLA said: ‘I’m delighted that my Department, working in partnership with DRCDG and SEUPB, is providing funding under the PEACEPLUS programme to the Walking for All (WFA) project. WFA is not just about walking – it is about inspiring people to come together through shared, volunteer led experiences, strengthening bonds within our rural communities while enjoying the beauty of our countryside at its very best.

This project will create a lasting legacy of healthier, happier and more connected rural communities, demonstrating the remarkable impact of community-led initiatives to inspire long-term positive change and helping rural areas to thrive as places where people can live, work and prosper.’

The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, and Minister of State with Responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD, welcomed the announcement.

Minister Calleary said: “I would like to express my gratitude to all those who contributed to the Walking for All initiative. I am pleased that my Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht will continue to support this outstanding project in collaboration with the Special EU Programmes Body and the Department of Agriculture,

Environment, and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland. The area will reap long-term benefits from this project”.

Minister Buttimer added: “This significant funding will support social interaction, reduce isolation and encourage active lifestyles. The planned investment will enable communities to reach their full potential in terms of the economy, society, and environment.”

Welcoming the announcement, Gina McIntyre, CEO of the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), said: “Walking for All reflects the purpose of PEACEPLUS by creating opportunities for people to come together in ways that strengthen health, confidence and connection. Many rural communities may not have easy access to sports facilities, and this programme offers a simple and inclusive way to address those challenges. By providing trained support, accessible routes and a welcoming structure, it will help thousands of people build new routines and deepen their sense of belonging together. We are pleased to support an initiative that encourages shared enjoyment of the outdoors and contributes to longterm wellbeing across our region.”

Gareth Moore, Head of Participation at Outscape added: “Walking for All will enable people of all ages and abilities across NI and the border counties to ‘step out’ in supported, inclusive and welcoming walking groups. Rooted in rural communities, this landmark participation programme seeks to increase levels of physical activity, while addressing social isolation and loneliness amongst some members of our community. 

The funding from PEACEPLUS will bring communities to the heart of their local landscapes, enabling them to explore, create friendships and support each other through walking and in shared appreciation of the outdoors.

Trained Walk Leaders will deliver local walks within their communities, supported by Officers engaged by local authorities and sports partnerships. This network of Walk Leaders will be responsible for delivering life-enhancing support to their communities in a fun and fulfilling role, leading a short, regular weekly walk near their home. Together with our partners, we’re excited to offer everyone the opportunity to walk together, make new friends and improve their health through Walking for All.”

Walking for All is a key priority for both governments across the island, supporting public health, community wellbeing, and preventative action.  Research shows that structured walking is one of the most cost-effective and inclusive ways to increase physical activity, improve mental wellbeing, reduce social isolation, and deepen people’s connection with nature, whilst strengthening community participation and cross-sector collaboration.

Dawson Stelfox, Chair of Outscape and the first Irishman to summit Mount Everest speaking on the programme potential added;  “Walking for All is a vital investment in community health and wellbeing across NI and the border counties of Ireland, rooted in the evidence that simple, locally led walking programmes can deliver lasting benefits which improve physical and mental wellbeing, reduce isolation and strengthen community ties.

Outscape is proud to be the lead delivery partner for Walking for All working in partnership with Councils, LSPs, health bodies and community organisations. The programme has the potential to reach people who might otherwise be left behind, as well as create sustainable, positive change in community wellbeing and social cohesion across the region.”

Welcoming the launch announcement Graham Thompson, Trust Director of Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust said: “We’re delighted to be a partner in the delivery of the Walking For All programme in rural locations across the Mid & East Antrim Borough Council area.

“The programme will help people from all communities within Northern Ireland, and the border counties too, become healthier and more active. It’s also great to see a programme designed to include everyone of all abilities.

“Walking is the most accessible form of exercise. It’s free, requires no special equipment or skills and people can go at their own pace and comfort level.

“Walks will take place in each village at the same time and same place in the hope that anyone can join with confidence that the walk will be taking place each week in the same location.

“By training local walk leaders in all our rural villages, to help them set up their own groups, we’re creating a massive opportunity for everyone to get involved.

“Our thanks to The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and Outscape for the opportunity to be part of this important work in our communities.”

The Walking for All launch event will take place on Friday, 27 February 2026, at The Junction, Dungannon. The event will bring together champions for outdoors and health, government departments, funders, and delivery partners to celebrate the start of this transformative programme.

Visit www.walkingforall.com for more information on becoming a Walk Leader or to find local walks.

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The rare building, one of only six in the UK, sits within the former RAF Limavady site and was a key defence site in the ‘Battle of the Atlantic’ during WWII.

A sod-cutting is being held to mark a £1m investment in conservation and public access at the Dome by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and partners as part of Binevenagh Landscape Partnership.

The project will not only relaunch the scheduled WWII Trainer Dome into a multi-purpose community event space with 360-degree projection capability but will aim to remove the scheduled monument from the Heritage at Risk Register.

With a target opening date of Autumn 2026, the Trainer Dome will create a facility to tell the WWI and WWII story of Lough Foyle and the North-West through immersive projection technology. The project part of a developing ‘Atlantic Defence Trail’ which will see the development of conservation and public access to additional sites of defence heritage interest around the coast of Northern Ireland.

The project is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund with the support of National Lottery players, Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. The sod-cutting celebration marks the culmination of seven-year programme of engagement with the local community and heritage experts to gain scheduled monument and planning consent.

Devity Contract Services will now begin clearance works before work to prepare the venue can begin.

Dr Paul Mullan, Northern Ireland Director at The National Lottery Heritage Fund said:

“We are so pleased the see the development of this unique defence heritage project as part of our commitment to the delivery of the Binevenagh and Coastal Lowlands Landscape Partnership. The conservation of the Second World War Training Dome is a flagship project which offers both visitors and local people to opportunity to learn more about the history and heritage of the landscape.

We are looking forward to seeing the works progress and the exciting ways that this space will engage people. Thanks to National Lottery players we are able to support the training dome project which will provide a sustainable future for this important monument.”

The milestone was also welcomed by project partner Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

Mayor Councillor Oliver McMullan commented:

 “Council is delighted to see work beginning on the World War II RAF ‘Trainer Dome’ project in Aghanloo.

“The site has played an important role in the island’s history, and this work will not only preserve the building, but also recognise the contribution and sacrifice made by many local people during World War II.

“Future plans for the site, include a multi-purpose community event space, will be beneficial for the entire community and a welcome addition for many generations to come.”

Contractor Devity Contract Service’s Sean Warnock outlined the next stages of work at the site:

“Over the coming months, works will progress to include access improvements, drainage and service installations, alongside the conservation and refurbishment of the Dome structure itself. This will involve specialist structural steelwork, installation of a new tensile fabric covering, and associated internal and external repairs, all carried out in line with the requirements of a scheduled monument.

“We are proud to be delivering this project in close collaboration with the design team and stakeholders, with a strong emphasis on safety, heritage sensitivity and quality, as we help secure the long-term future of this unique structure for the local community.”

Project updates will be added to the Binevenagh & Coastal Lowlands Landscape Partnership Scheme Facebook page: link.

FAQs

– Is the Trainer Dome formally acknowledged as an important site?

The structure is in private ownership and is a scheduled monument (SMR Number LDY 009:048). The Dome has been included as a Training Site in ‘The Northern Ireland Defence Heritage Project Database’ as an acknowledgement of its architectural and historical significance.

– What makes the Trainer Dome so significant?

Trainer Domes are a particularly rare military building typology, with only six remaining in the UK. They represent a significant period in our history when sites across Northern Ireland were under threat from invasion and aerial attack. The RAF Limavady Training Dome is of particular interest as it is the only one remaining in Northern Ireland. Its survival and unusual appearance presents an opportunity for the structure to become a focal point in telling the story of how Lough Foyle played a vital role in the defence of Britain during WWII.

– How did the Trainer Dome work?

The design concept of the trainer dome is that images of enemy aircraft are projected onto the interior of the dome which were fired at by a replica anti-aircraft gun. Only half of the dome’s inner surface was used as a target screen as the rest was lined with sound absorbent material to limit echoes. Between 1942 and 1944 over forty concrete and steel domes were built on airfields across the country. Please see the Conservation Management Plan for the Dome for more details.

– What was the Trainer Dome’s role in WWII?

With US troops and supply convoys reaching Britain via Northern Ireland, the port of Londonderry became vital during the Battle of the Atlantic. This led to an increase in military activity in the area including the development of RAF Limavady in 1940 and RAF Ballykelly in 1941 as well as the establishment of a significant anti-aircraft battery at Magilligan Point.  The fall of France in June 1940 led to the fear of imminent German invasion. This led to the establishment of a ‘concrete crust’ of defences to beaches and shorelines along the north coast including numerous pillboxes, anti-boat landing defences, roadblocks and barbed wire entanglements.

– How has formal research and planning for work at the Trainer Dome been carried out?

The RAF Limavady Trainer Dome Conservation Management Plan was compiled by Hamilton Architects on behalf of Binevenagh and Coastal Lowlands Landscape Partnership Scheme.

It was written following the format of The National Lottery Heritage Fund Guidance document, Conservation Plan Guidance dated October 2012.

The Plan was commissioned to inform the sensitive and appropriate development of the site with the aims of:

• Understanding of the significance of the RAF Limavady Trainer Dome, its setting, context and links to other defence heritage structures in the region.
• Understanding of the architectural importance of the structure.
• Understanding of the risks and opportunities associated with the development of the site.
• Developing policies and recommendations to conserve and enhance the special architectural, historical and political significance of the building.
• Meeting the projected outcomes of The National Lottery Heritage Fund including involving a broader range of people in heritage, improving the condition and understanding of heritage assets and developing heritage skills within the local community.

– What is the project value?

The £4.2m Binevenagh and Coastal Lowlands Landscape Partnership has received £3,435,685 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players.

The WWII Dome Project represents an investment of £950,000 as one of 13 projects being delivered by the Binevenagh and Coastal Lowlands Landscape Partnership.

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A dig at Ballintoy, supported by landowner liaison and public engagement carried out by Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust, was joined by a CCGHT-hosted group of 40 visitors (despite rain and howling wind!). It also drew coverage on BBC Radio Ulster’s Kintra programme and social media interest too.  

The Early Neolithic monument has been yielding up its secrets thanks to the project ‘From Brittany to Ballintoy’, funded by the Research and Revival Scheme of the Historic Environment Fund, Northern Ireland.  

The ‘Druid Stone’ – formerly known as ‘Mount Druid cromlech’ despite no connection with Druids – is a simple passage tomb of a type known from various places along the west coast of Britain and around the coast of the northern part of Ireland which dates to the Neolithic (approx 3900BC), when people first started farming in Ireland.  A find of southern Breton Late Castellic pottery at one of these tombs at Achnacreebeag near Oban points towards Brittany as an area of origin for their builders. 

Excavations at the Druid Stone by John Mogey in 1939 uncovered a charcoal-rich layer containing flint and cremated human bone around much of the monument’s exterior, but sadly all his finds have been lost. 

New Dig

The new excavation, by Dr Cormac McSparron (QUB) with Dr Alison Sheridan for Archaeology Scotland and undertaken between 20th and 22nd January in challenging conditions. It aimed to obtain dating material that could show when the passage tomb was built. 

Sample for Optically Stimulated Luminescence were also taken by Dr Florian Cousseau and Professor Chris Scarre for an international Durham University project called Megalithic Origins: the emergence of monumentality in Neolithic Western Europe, led by Dr Marta Diaz-Guardamino. 

The dig relocated the black layer and found the same range of materials, so radiocarbon dating of short-lived species charcoal and of cremated bone can be carried out. It also demonstrated that this layer and its stone capping ran over, and therefore post-dated, the packing stones for the passage tomb uprights, and it also showed there had been no cairn between the tomb and its circular kerb. 

Secondary activity was also found: sometime between 2300 and 2000 BC, sherds of a Beaker pot were placed in a small pit dug into the black layer. Dr Sheridan will return to the area later this month to lecture in Ballycastle.

The From Brittany to Ballintoy project is part of a broader research initiative, Boyne to Brodgar, which includes a £50K project, Scotland’s Earliest Megalithic Monuments, led by Archaeology Scotland and funded by the Audrey Henshall Legacy Fund administered by the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.  

Many thanks to Dr Alison Sheridan, National Museums Scotland, for the contextual information in this article. Landscape photo by David Craig, dig photo by Professor Chris Scarre.

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The Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust (CCGHT) is seeking experienced individuals or companies to project manage, produce, and supply a suite of six videos highlighting Northern Ireland’s five UNESCO sites:

• Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast World Heritage Site
• Gracehill World Heritage Site
• Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark
• Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark
• Belfast Creative City

These videos will raise awareness and communicate UNESCO’s key messages across social media and digital platforms.
Deadline for submitting quotations: 12 noon on Wednesday 14 January 2026

Send proposals to: rosslyn@ccght.org, Queries: 07718192402

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The opportunity comes at an exciting time for the Trust, with a recently-published Prospectus document reaffirming CCGHT’s dedication to preserving, celebrating and enhancing the unique character of our very special areas.

The organisation delivers for those areas using 25 years of protected area management, partnerships and projects designed to support natural, built and cultural heritage. To do this, CCGHT brings together internal subject and project expertise, with external specialists where needed, for the benefit of all.

It is the responsibility of applicants to ensure that sections 4 and 5 of the information pack/s are completed and returned to CCGHT by 5pm on Monday 19^th January 2026.

Potential candidates who would like to discuss the role can contact Trust Director Graham Thompson with any questions: 07568 158061 or graham@ccght.org.

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The opportunity comes at an exciting time for the Trust, with a recently-published Prospectus document reaffirming CCGHT’s dedication to preserving, celebrating and enhancing the unique character of our very special areas.

The organisation delivers for those areas using 25 years of protected area management, partnerships and projects designed to support natural, built and cultural heritage. To do this, CCGHT brings together internal subject and project expertise, with external specialists where needed, for the benefit of all.

It is the responsibility of applicants to ensure that Sections 4 and 5 of the information pack are completed and returned to CCGHT by 12 noon on Monday 19^th January 2026.

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