With work expected to start on the ambitious £18m project at the Giant's Causeway in May, today's cash boost from the Heritage Lottery Fund has been hailed as a "landmark announcement".

Billed as a "world class visitors' centre" the facility aims to enhance the interpretation of the causeway's unique history, geology and biodiversity, which attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year.

Additionally, an extensive programme of outreach activities will be developed to encourage the north Antrim community to become involved in the project.
Up to 100 volunteers will be recruited to act as welcome hosts, storytellers, wardens and support staff. Local primary schools, colleges and universities will be invited to take part in a series of educational and environmental programmes.

Celebrating the announcement, the National Trust's NI director Hilary McGrady said the money had cemented the project, which has been two years in the planning.
"This is a landmark announcement for the Giant's Causeway and indeed the people of Northern Ireland," she said.
"I am thrilled that the Heritage Lottery Fund has so significantly supported this major project which will see the Giant's Causeway protected and a world class visitors' centre and experience in place.
"This funding of £3m has today ensured that the Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coast World Heritage Site will truly be sustained, transformed and forever treasured."

The visitors' centre project, which is still awaiting the outcome of a £9m funding application to the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, received high praise from the Lottery's Ronnie Spence.
"Not only does this investment provide a real boost to the local economy through the creation of employment opportunities, but for the first time we have the opportunity to adopt a holistic approach to the management of the Giant's Causeway to ensure that our only World Heritage Site is protected and conserved for future generations," said Mr Spence, who is chairman of the NI Heritage Lottery Fund committee.

With conservation at the heart of the project, the National Trust says the spectacular new visitor facilities will complement the surrounding landscape, ensuring sustainable management of this important heritage asset.
Speaking to the News Letter, a spokesperson for the trust said it was hoped the centre will open in 2012.

"The time for talking is over. We have a very substantial pot of cash now, and we can look forward to seeing the work starting in a few weeks," she said.