Another step in lifting lockdown as some outdoor sites re-open today

Q Radio News

The majority of State Care Monuments will reopen to the public today

Most of the sites – excluding those which have significant amounts of indoor space or which present particular safety or public health challenges – will be open for access, along with car parks.

However, facilities including toilets, visitors’ centres, cafes and shops will remain closed in line with public health requirements.

Shane Quinn from the Belfast Buildings Trust says today's move will be beneficial to everyone:

Making the announcement, Minister Hargey said: “From May 28 members of the public will once again be able to enjoy the beauty and history of dozens of outdoor spaces managed by my department’s Historic Environment Division.

“I recognise how hard the restrictions have been and the impact that has had on people’s physical and mental health. However, it would be remiss of me not to remind the public that we have not yet emerged from the COVID-19 crisis. 

“It is vital that people continue to socially distance, wash their hands and not become complacent as restrictions begin to be lift. Please enjoy these beautiful spaces, take care of them and dispose of your litter carefully or take it home with you.”

Historic outdoor spaces that people will be able to enjoy from next week include Giant’s Ring in south Belfast, Inch Abbey near Downpatrick, Nendrum Monastic Site on Strangford Lough, Tully Castle in Fermanagh, and Kinbane Castle near Ballycastle.

Sites which will remain closed to the public for the time being include Carrickfergus Castle, Dunluce Castle, Devenish Island, Scrabo Tower, Dundrum Castle and Grey Abbey. 

Pictured - Carrickfergus Castle