THE PENINSULA: REINVENTED

International Film & TV Studios

The works and quarry site have recently been used for various film-shoots. The site, with its different characteristics, has the advantage of providing a range of settings all within one relatively small area.

The Province lacks a focal point for its film industry. The Northern Ireland Film and TV Commission believes Magheramorne could have the potential to play this role and attract film productions from within the UK, from Ireland and from around the world.

We believe the emphasis on sustainable development on the site is likely to attract productions and lead-actors wishing to associate with Magheramorne's green credentials.

An artist's impression of what the film studio buildings could be like is shown below. The use of stone gabion walls and vegetation growing over them, plus the partial 'sinking' of the studios below the level of the surrounding tipped land, helps to reduce the visual impact of the buildings.

Ecology and Rock Art

Larne Lough is of international importance for birds. The eastern end of the peninsula will be maintained as a nature reserve, providing undisturbed habitat for wading birds and waterfowl, as well as otters. A tower hide, a small field centre and floating islands in the lough for nesting birds are amongst a range of initiatives we propose in order to encourage wildlife and its appreciation by the public.

In the mudflats around the peninsula, we would like to create land art features that also serve as new habitats for the wildlife. New planting would take place across the peninsula.

Heritage Railway

The Railway Preservation Society of Ireland wishes to extend its operations, based at Whitehead, by:

• running a steam service from the harbour village at Magheramorne to the interpretation centre at the end of the peninsula
• having a visitors centre containing a collection of historic rolling stock from the Irish railway system
• operating steam excursion trains into Magheramorne from Belfast and other stations in Northern Ireland

Events Area

Our plans for the peninsula also include an area that could be used for events like country fairs and circuses. The area could also be used for overflow car parking when international mountain-biking competitions are taking place in the quarry.