Swimming shelter set to revive Castlerock's coastal heritage

A swimming shelter is scheduled for construction in Castlerock.

Currently in the design phase, the construction is expected to start within the next three months with the shelter expected to be ready in time for the winter swimmers.

This project is part of a wider project called ‘Castlerock Trails and Tales’ that aims to “revive the heritage and history of Castlerock including the old pool," said Melissa McQuitty, the Outdoor Recreation Project Officer at the Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust.

The Castlerock old pool was in reality a place where seawater naturally accumulated between rocks, forming a natural pool along the coastline.

Used for years by locals, Melissa explained that the pool is now filled with sand due to the evolution of the sand dune system. The level of the sand has also increased since the old pool was used.

“The community project team decided to reestablish the swim shelter as a way to tell its story,” said Melissa.

“A report about Castlerock in July 1885 mentions Castlerock's 'fine swimming pools, on which a considerable sum has recently been expended and its commodious bathing boxes, free of access to the public',” said Melissa.  

According to Melissa, the local swimming group called ‘The Castlerock Mermaids’ is eagerly waiting for the completion of the shelter which is regularly meeting at Castlerock beach for swim sessions.

“Castlerock Trails and Tales project aims to enrich the community by showcasing the heritage of Castlerock through various initiatives, including the establishment of a new trail network, interpretation points, signage, public art murals, and of course, the much-anticipated swimming shelter,” said Melissa McQuitty, the Outdoor Recreation Project Officer at the Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust.

“We are excited about the positive impact that the swim shelter and the broader Castlerock Trails and Tales project will have in the community.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generous funding provided by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, which has made this project a reality,” she said.

The Castlerock Trails and Tales project is a collaboration between the Binevenagh and Coastal Lowlands Landscape Partnership Scheme, Castlerock Community Association, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, and National Trust generously funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund,

For further details about the Landscape Partnership, visit their website binevenaghaonb.ccght.org/