Carrick-a-rede rope bridge to remain shut over Easter

Carrick-a-rede rope bridge to remain shut over Easter

By The Newsroom

Published 15th Apr 2022, 10:30 GMT

Updated 15th Apr 2022, 11:58 GMT

The popular Carrick-a-rede rope bridge tourist attraction will not open over Easter due to staffing issues, the National Trust has said.

The National Trust advertised job listings last month for people to work at the dramatic cliff-top tourist attraction.

But the trust’s operations manager, Alastair Walker, has confirmed it will remain closed for the time being due to staffing difficulties.

The world-famous rope bridge closed during the coronavirus pandemic and has yet to reopen.

placeholder image — A short coastal footpath leads to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. On the way, there are wonderful vantage points to stop and take in the natural beauty. The geology, flora and fauna have won Carrick-a-Rede recognition as an area of special scientific interest. Fulmars, kittywakes, guillemots and razorbills breed on the islands close to the rope bridge. Of course, Carrick-a-Rede also boasts an exhilarating rope bridge experience. Traditionally fishermen erected the bridge to Carrick-a-Rede island over a 23m-deep and 20m-wide chasm to check their salmon nets.

Mr Walker, speaking to the BBC about the staffing issues, said: “The whole tourism and hospitality industry has been hit.

“I believe people have found other opportunities during lockdowns and it’s up to us to attract them back.”