A Chronicles of Narnia visitor experience at a Co Down park looks set for a major investment.
The interactive walking trail, at Kilbroney Park in Rostrevor, is to to be upgraded in a bid to boost local tourism.
Details of the plans are to be announced next month, but have been discussed by councillors at Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.
READ MORE: Narnia fairytale garden opens in Co Down for children impacted by cancer.
The half mile walk starts and finishes in Kilbroney Park in Rostrevor and ‘brings to life’ the Chronicles of Narnia with a number of features along the route. The trail is entered, like the magical world of Narnia as told in the famous book, through a ‘Wardrobe Door’.
Author, CS Lewis is said to have been inspired by the beauty of the Mourne Mountains to create his famous story of ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’.
The tourist attraction is expected see a large investment by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council with an announcement in October.
Elected members of the local authority have this week been allowed to view the blue-prints for the Narnia project, though the public has not yet been given the same privilege.
Mournes councillor Henry Reilly (DUP) said: “The plans for the Narnia experience will be a great upgrade on what already exists.
“This will no doubt attract a wider tourism catchment to the Mournes that will benefit the local economy and the community.
“Unfortunately, I cannot speak in more detail on this matter as it was brought into closed confidential session at the last enterprise, regeneration and tourism meeting.
“However, I do expect a decision to be ratified at the next full council meeting.”
CS Lewis is said to have written a letter to his brother saying: “That part of Rostrevor which overlooks Carlingford Lough is my idea of Narnia.”
The book he would go on to write has sold over 100 million copies giving some degree as to the tourism interest that the new upgrade will bring to the Mournes.
The council was asked for further information on the Narnia project.
A spokesperson said: “At Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Enterprise, Regeneration and Tourism Committee meeting on 12 September, members agreed to progress outline business cases for the development of the Narnia Experience at Kilbroney Park
“This decision is due to be considered at October’s meeting at full council after which further details will be available.”
READ NEXT:
The Queen's Death: What is happening and when in the days ahead
Key questions as Bank Holiday announced for The Queen’s State Funeral
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here. To sign up to our FREE newsletters, see here
