Mayor welcomes visitors as Gobbins Coastal Path reopens

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston joined with and welcomed visitors to the reopened Gobbins Coastal Path on Tuesday morning, 01 September.

As the world-renowned attraction opened its doors to the public again, the Mayor was among the first to take a tour of the breath-taking walk and visitor centre in Islandmagee.

Chatting with other visitors, the Mayor spoke of his delight at being able to enjoy the spectacular walk again.

“It is my absolute pleasure to be here today and to be able to welcome visitors back to what can only be described as one of the most unforgettable days out you will ever have in your lifetime.

“The Gobbins Coastal Path is more than a walk, it is an experience like no other and is just one of the many beautiful tourist attractions within the borough that are open and ready to welcome visitors again.

“This marks another major step forward for Mid and East Antrim Borough Council in our ongoing commitment to the local tourism industry and the wider economy and I am delighted to see so many back here today.”

The Mayor also paid tribute to staff at the Centre and their efforts in obtaining the ‘We’re Good to Go’ charter mark which features enhanced safety measures in compliance with strict Covid-19 guidelines.

He continued: “My sincere thanks are extended to everyone who has worked so hard to ensure and maintain the safety of all our visitors to The Gobbins at this time.

“These measures are for the safety of everyone and I have no doubt they will be fully complied with at all times.”

As part of the enhanced safety measures, all visitors to The Gobbins are now required to pre-book their tour, use ‘contactless’ payment methods where possible and adhere to a one-way system. Bookings and payment details can be found here

At a Glance - Updated Safety Measures:

Tours limited to a maximum of 10 persons per group

All tours MUST be pre-booked

Contactless payment preferred

One-way systems operating in Car Park, Visitor Centre, Gift Shop & Exhibition Area

Face coverings to be worn in all indoor areas

Social-distancing to be observed at all times

Hand sanitiser stations provided

Comprehensive cleaning procedures in place throughout buildings and tour

Full details of the new procedures and policies can be found here