Controversial plans for a privately owned visitors' centre at the Giants Causeway were today ditched by the North's environment minister.
Arlene Foster, who last year said she was minded to back a bid by private developer Seymour Sweeney, told MLAs in the Stormont Assembly she has now changed her mind.
She said she had decided against the bid over planning concerns. "There are serious doubts that the proposed development would adequately integrate into the landscape and it would add to the spread of development at this sensitive location," the DUP minister said.
"I have therefore concluded on balance and on further reflection that the application should be refused."
Mr Sweeney had been seeking planning permission for a visitor and study centre housed under a grassed circular dome.
This was to accommodate up to 750,000 visitors a year and would include an audio visual theatre, a restaurant and kitchen, a gift and souvenirs shop, visitor services, staff offices and library facilities.
Mr Sweeney had also sought permission for parking for 200 cars - mostly underground.
PA
