The announcement was made by Edwin Poots, MLA, Minister responsible for inland waterways at the launch of Lagan Valley Regional Park’s Landscape Partnership Scheme.
He said: “The Heritage Lottery Fund is to contribute £1.6million towards a £2.23million programme of work which will see the restoration of McCleave’s Lock and the Lock Keeper’s Cottage featured in the BBC Restoration Programme.
“Also planned is an exciting and diverse range of landscape and heritage-related projects which will include a heritage trail from the Lock-Keeper’s Cottage.
“The project will provide visitors with a glimpse of how the 26 mile Lagan Canal connecting Belfast and Lough Neagh via Lisburn impacted on day-to-day life between 1763, when it opened, until its abandonment in 1958.
“Over half a million people each year enjoy walking along the towpath. Over the next five years visitors will see the project unfold and add to the overall appreciation of the rich historical and cultural significance of the Lagan Valley Regional Park.
“These objectives dovetail perfectly with my Department’s commitment to encouraging as many people as possible to experience the excellence of our cultural assets.”
The Minister congratulated all concerned in securing the funding and pointed out that the contribution from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the commitment from 15 partner organisations will help deliver a diverse range of landscape and heritage related projects over the next five years.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
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