Steel Stern Sculpture
Visitors arriving in Larne by ferry will now receive a memorable welcome with the installation of an enormous new "Steel Stern" sculpture at the Harbour Roundabout, which was officially unveiled today (Wednesday 26 August). In addition, four new information and interpretation points around the town will provide visitors with details about the history of Larne, its port, and of the facilities and services available locally.
The Mayor, Councillor Bobby McKee MBE was pleased to confirm the completion of this project:
"The Steel Stern creates a major focal point at the entrance to Northern Ireland through the Port of Larne. This new feature celebrates the important links between port and town, and gives visitors and residents a positive and unique image of Larne."
The four new information and interpretation points are located at the Tourist Information Centre, in Broadway, under the Harbour Highway at Bridge Street and at Chaine Memorial Car Park. They provide history and information relating to the surrounding area as well as contact details for visitor services.
Hazel Bell, Town Development Manager with Larne Borough Council said:
"We are grateful for a grant from the Norothern Ireland Tourist Board Tourism Development Scheme, together with financial support from Larne Borough Council and sponsorship from the Port of Larne. This new scheme contributes to ensuring that everyone is "Welcome to Larne" by marking their arrival and providing vital information about the locale."
A short ceremony to mark the completion of the project provided an opportunity to hear the debut of a new musical piece, "The Port of Larne". This instrumental, written and performed by Robin James Hurt, was inspired by the concept of Larne as a gateway between Ireland and Scotland, and joins two different melodies - one inspired by a piping tradition and the second more reminiscent of a fiddle reel.
Further information is available from Hazel Bell, Town Development Office, Larne Borough Council on 28263082.
