Carnfunnock Country Park temporarily closes for £6.1m redevelopment project

Cutting the sod on the £6.1m refurbishment of Carnfunnock Park, the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford is joined by project funders, Ryan Donaghy and Jenny Martin of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Carnfunnock Country Park has temporarily closed its gates to facilitate a major £6.1 million redevelopment project that will breathe new life into one of Mid and East Antrim’s most treasured outdoor destinations.

Led by McKelvey Construction, the extensive transformation marks a bold step forward for the 191-acre park, nestled along Northern Ireland’s iconic Causeway Coastal Route.

The works commenced in early July following a successful planning and procurement process, with completion expected to deliver a modern, inclusive and dynamic attraction for both residents and visitors alike.

The redevelopment is being made possible through significant funding from the UK Government, and is set to introduce a range of high-quality new features including a state-of-the-art visitor centre, a fully accessible adventure play park, enhanced caravan park facilities, and a new bike park.

To mark the beginning of the £6.1m refurbishment of Carnfunnock Park, the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford is joined by main project funders, Ryan Donaghy and Jenny Martin of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said the project represents a major investment in the area’s future.

“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 highlights of the redevelopment include:

• New Visitor Centre: Featuring a reception area, shop, café with stunning coastal views, and both indoor and outdoor seating.

• Adventure Play Park: A fully inclusive space designed for children of all abilities.

• Bike Park: Including a pump track and jump trail tailored to older children and adults.

• Maze Viewing Platform: An elevated structure offering sweeping views over the park’s iconic hedge maze.

• Modern Amenity Block: New toilet and changing facilities for caravan park users, along with a coffee dock.

• Enhanced Infrastructure: Upgraded paths, improved signage, accessible routes, drop-off zones, car parking improvements and traffic calming measures.

To mark the beginning of the £6.1m refurbishment of Carnfunnock Park, the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford is joined by funders and the project team (l-r) Ruth McNickle, Hall, Black and Douglas Architects, Darren McKelvey, McKelvey Construction, Jenny Martin and Ryan Donaghy of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Terina McDermott, McKelvey Construction and Barry Coleman, Currie and Brown.

UK Minister for Local Growth, Alex Norris, welcomed the development, saying:

“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.”

Temporary Closure and Public Access

To enable the works, Carnfunnock Country Park officially closed to the public on 6 July 2025. However, efforts have been made to maintain access where possible.

Carnfunnock Map showing pedestrian access throughout the build project.

Pedestrian routes will remain open throughout the redevelopment period, and visitors are encouraged to make use of parking facilities at Drains Bay and Carnfunnock Bay.

Toilets will also be available at Drains Bay during the closure.

The Council confirmed that the upgrade follows extensive public consultation and is part of its broader commitment to enhancing green spaces, encouraging tourism, and supporting local economic development.

Opened in 1990, Carnfunnock Country Park has long been a favourite among families, nature enthusiasts and tourists.

This latest investment will ensure it continues to inspire and delight for generations to come—with upgraded facilities and innovative attractions designed for inclusivity, accessibility and sustainability.