Coastal Development - Overview and Value

Northern Ireland is valued for its beautiful and relatively unspoilt coast including well known features such as the Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coast, Benone Strand, Antrim Coast Road, Strangford Lough and the Mournes Coast. The coastline – which is some 650 kilometres in length – is a unique part of our natural heritage. It includes a wide variety of landscapes many of which are of high scenic quality. It is also of great importance in terms of its scientific interest, nature conservation value and its wildlife habitats. Much of the coast is designated within areas of outstanding natural beauty, areas of special scientific interest, or as marine conservation zones.