Blackhead Coastal Path

Tender description

Blackhead Path lies directly north of Whitehead, Co. Antrim. It runs from a car park situated north of the Whitehead Promenade, along the coast to the base of the cliffs at Blackhead. The path continues around the headland and inclines upwards towards the Blackhead lighthouse. It then extends southwards to the front of the lighthouse complex to a gate where it connects with the lighthouse access road. There is also a smaller path that runs along the top of the headland before dropping down and returning to meet the coastal path. Blackhead Path is used by the local communities of Whitehead, Carrickfergus, Larne and Belfast, in addition to tourists visiting these areas. Access to the carpark is via Old Castle Road which is 500m from ‘central’ Whitehead. Coastal erosion and slope movements have caused damage to the existing Blackhead Path and the retaining structures located at the toe of the slope. In addition, rock falls have damaged handrailing and the path network around the cliff. Consultants were engaged to review the condition of the path and confirmed that it was at risk of collapse. Due to health and safety reasons the path was closed to the public in August 2018.