Minister Lyons delivers successful heritage revival project in Coleraine
Date published:
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has visited Coleraine Town Hall to see the Heritage Guide, one of almost 90 projects supported last year through his Department’s Historic Environment Fund.
The Minister said:
“In 2025-26, I committed almost £800,000 for heritage projects across Northern Ireland. Coleraine Heritage Guide is just one example, reflecting the enormous range of creativity and interest our communities have in their historic environment – finding out more about their own places and seeking a sustainable future for our heritage.
“I pay tribute to owners of listed buildings and monuments whose work to care for and celebrate their assets helps to attract tourism and investment to our region. Their efforts contribute to community pride and our shared sense of place, while sustaining these high quality environmental resources for us all to enjoy.”
The Coleraine Town Heritage Guide project developed a town heritage trail which promotes Coleraine. The project involved the production of an illustrated booklet using buildings in the town centre to tell the commercial, industrial and social history of the town. An accompanying portable 3D model of Coleraine centre was also produced.
Project lead Joanne Honeyford at Causeway Coast and Glens Council said:
‘‘The Department for Communities’ Historic Environment Fund 2025–26 Revival Stream has enabled us to launch this exciting new heritage trail for Coleraine. Through the use of a 3D map featuring key heritage buildings, alongside innovative Museum-in-a-Box technology, the project enhances accessibility and ensures that those unable to physically undertake the walk can still experience and engage with the town’s rich history.’’
Notes to editors:
1. Photo caption: Communities Minister Gordon Lyons pictured at Coleraine Town Hall with the Coleraine 3D heritage model along with Richard Stewart, Deputy Lord Mayor, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council; and Joanne Honeyford, Community Engagement Officer – Museum Services, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.
2. The support provided in 2025/26 included funding for owners to repair their listed buildings and assisting a wide range of groups and individuals to research, regenerate and increase public awareness of our historic environment. It was awarded under four streams:
- the Repair Stream supported roof and window repairs to listed buildings, prioritising heritage at risk, thatched buildings and buildings with owners on qualifying benefits;
- the Regeneration Stream supported strategic work with communities and groups and a small amount of development work for buildings and monuments;
- the Research Stream funded research to improve our shared understanding of the historic environment
- the Revival Stream supported communities and groups to celebrate and increase public appreciation of their heritage.
3. Examples of other successful recipients can be viewed at Historic Environment Funding Grants.
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