The people of Ballymena won't have to battle their way to the North Coast this summer to chase waves as the town is due to get its very own beach.
The quirky project, to be installed at the People's Park in the heart of the town, has been created by award-winning designer Ian Price.
The beach will be used to host an outdoor cinema and other public functions throughout the summer but will also be a flexible area that has plenty of space for laying out the beach towels, a dedicated sand sculpture section, and a jetty style promenade.
The project will cost in the region of £30,000 to complete and the main feature of the urban beach will be a lighthouse.
Ian Price said: “This is very much a first for me as a garden designer.
“I really do relish the opportunity to create something new and different, and this is the first time anyone has asked me to design such a unique space.
"I was honoured to be asked to be involved with this exciting event and my hope is that this is enjoyed by all that visit, and it becomes a talking point far beyond the council area.”
The project is being funded by the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Running alongside the Urban Beach, there will also be an activity programme for teens relating to the outdoors.
So if you fancying trying out your survival skills or scaling new heights, or developing art installations, teens can register their interest by emailing: yourplaceourspace@midandeastantrim.gov.uk.
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