TUV North Antrim MP Jim Allister and MLA Timothy Gaston have welcomed today’s announcement that Gracehill is to be granted world heritage status.
Jim Allister said:
“This is a deserved accolade for historic Gracehill, a village founded as the only complete Moravian settlement in Ireland over 260 years ago. I commend the local community for the work they have put in to maintain both the historic character of the village and highlight its unique importance to a wider, and now global, community. I hope that this recognition will cause more people to explore the remarkable heritage on their doorstep as well as providing yet another reason for visitors to come to North Antrim.”
Local MLA Timothy Gaston added:
“This is a red letter day for everyone in Gracehill but I want to particularly pay tribute to the Gracehill Trust for the hard work and energy the team of volunteers have dedicated to this bid over over many years and in particular David Johnston for leading on the project.
“When on council I remarked on a number of occasions that Gracehill is the jewel in the crown of Bannside and this has now been recognised on a global scale.”
Local TUV Alderman Stewart McDonald said:
“This is a huge opportunity to drive tourism to Gracehill and it’s important Council continue to work with the group and local residents to ensure Gracehill and the surrounding area can all benefit. I was very honoured to host representatives from Unesco when they were over earlier this year as deputy mayor and am delighted that this is the outcome of all the community’s hard work.”