How the tourist attraction used to look

The new tubular bridge section of The Gobbins path is hoisted into place

The new tubular bridge section of The Gobbins path is hoisted into place

Northern Ireland's newest tourist attraction is to open at last - just in time to boost the end of summer numbers.

The spectacular Gobbins cliffhead path in east Antrim will launch on August 19.

Although some work remains to be done, Mid and East Antrim Council decided on Monday night to give the final green light.

The former Larne Borough Council championed the restoration of the historic, world-famous Gobbins path since the 1970s.

Now at last it is about to become a reality - and bookings will begin to be taken in the next few days.

Councillor Gordon Lyons, a member of the new council's Gobbins steering group, said: "We are absolutely delighted and looking forward to The Gobbins becoming one of the main tourist attractions in Northern Ireland.

"There is still some work remaining to be done, but we have decided to go ahead with opening on August 19 and it will be open all-year round."

An official launch event likely to involve Jonathan Bell, the minister responsible for tourism, is being organised for later in the year.

The path was to have opened in time for this year's summer season but was hit by a delay over getting the last bridge in place.

It was also struck by controversy when the Belfast Telegraph revealed The Gobbins had not been included among areas of the province marked for priority promotion over the next five years.

Councillor Mark McKinty, another steering group member, said: "Whatever has gone on before, we must now focus all our energies in ensuring The Gobbins becomes a first-class tourist destination."

Belfast Telegraph