Plans for £44m Mourne Mountains cable car project revealed
Check out what this exciting new attraction could look that 👇
Last updated 9th Mar 2023
Proposals for regenerating the disused Thomas Quarry in the Mourne Mountains into a world class visitor experience were revealed today.
The Mourne Mountains Gateway Project aims to “redefine the visitor experience of the Mourne Mountains whilst supporting the sustainable growth of tourism and protecting and enhancing the natural heritage and habitat of the region.”
A state of the art £44m visitor centre will allow visitors of all ages and abilities travelling by gondola lift to access breathtaking views in the heart of the Mourne Mountains.
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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Michael Savage said: “We are excited to share details of the latest stage of the Mourne Mountains Gateway Project and the many benefits this will bring to our district. This is a project which aims to deliver a visitor attraction of international interest and create improved and more sustainable access to the Mournes. Importantly, we will be supporting our Newry, Mourne and Down hospitality sector and creating jobs.
“We’re acutely aware of our environmental responsibilities and input from our residents, partners, and all those invested in tourism in the region is key. This project remains in development and the conversation continues.”
Cllr Savage continued, “There are also wider considerations. The Mourne Mountains Gateway Project will, for example, provide the first opportunity to introduce a visitor management plan for the site that will align with wider visitor management across the Mournes. The aim is also to provide managed access onwards in to the Mournes from the visitor centre itself. Surplus revenue from the project will additionally be reinvested into trail development and repairs on the mountains.”
John McGrillen, Chief Executive of Tourism NI, added: “Tourism NI is excited to see the Mourne Mountains Gateway Project reach this stage and looks forward to seeing it further develop. We believe the Mournes Gateway will provide another “must see” offering for Northern Ireland, providing a reason to visit, particularly for the Republic of Ireland and GB markets.
“Our research has indicated that for the European and US markets, the Mournes Gateway will act as an anchor attraction, and go on to facilitate exploration of the wider area.”
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