Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has visited Castlerock Pier to view the completed health and safety works on the Barmouth Moles.

The Department for Infrastructure committed £1.2 million over two years for the project, which addressed structural vulnerabilities caused by the loss of rock armour over time.

The Barmouth Moles are stone-and-concrete breakwaters that protect the area where the River Bann meets the Atlantic Ocean. They were originally constructed in the 1880s to maintain navigability on the river and allow boats to access Coleraine Harbour.

Minister Kimmins said the works were prioritised because the structural weakening could have led to impeded vessel access, increased erosion at key tourist beaches, and elevated flood risks along the lower Bann.

She added that completing the works will help protect the surrounding environment, reduce tidal flooding risks for local communities, and support the development of the local economy and the future of Coleraine Harbour.

Robert Skelly, Chair of Coleraine Harbour Commissioners, described the project as a significant and technically challenging marine engineering undertaking that was completed on time and within budget.

He credited the strong working relationship between the Department and the Harbour Commissioners for the successful outcome, and said the project demonstrates what can be achieved through such cooperation.

Skelly added that Coleraine has potential as a harbour, a destination, and an economic asset for the wider North Coast, and that he looks forward to continuing to work with the Minister and her Department.