Ulster Unionist Party election candidate Matthew Robinson has said he will campaign for an international sailing regatta at Coleraine harbour if elected to the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Robinson, who is standing in the East Londonderry constituency, made the pledge in response to recently revealed plans by the Coleraine Harbour Commissioners to transform the port, which could create hundreds of jobs. Among the proposals presented to Stormont's Infrastructure Committee is an international rowing centre.

Robinson said the developments represent an economic opportunity to establish a regatta that would attract visitors and investment. He cited the success of major sporting events held in the constituency, including the Open Golf Championship at Royal Portrush in 2019 and 2025, and the North West 200 motorcycle race, which he described as the largest annual sporting event in Northern Ireland.

He said those events have brought significant footfall and economic benefits to the North Coast, and that a regatta could replicate that impact.

The Harbour Commissioners' transformation plans for Coleraine harbour have not yet been approved. Robinson said he will prioritise seeking inward investment for the regatta if elected.

Elections to the Northern Ireland Assembly are scheduled for 2027.