PLANS for a controversial multi-million pound upgrade to a Co Down coastal path have been withdrawn following concerns from the public.
The 20-mile Greenway project was proposed to be built from Holywood to Donaghadee.
However, fears over the existing North Down Coastal Path have led to councillors unanimously agreeing not to move forward with the plan. The move follows public meetings on the proposals, and warnings that the project would cause "disastrous environmental damage" to the existing pathway.
Following the decision at Thursday night's Ards and North Down Borough Council meeting, a spokesperson for the local authority said: "The unanimous decision was taken following a discussion of public concerns about the proposals.
"Members also agreed to establish a working group to consider and explore solutions relating to accessibility, maintenance, and the connectivity of the existing North Down Coastal Path.
The DUP, the largest party on the 40-member Ards and North Down council, had made it clear it was against the project proceeding.
Posting on Twitter, DUP MLA Stephen Dunne wrote: "The North Down Coastal Path is a wonderful local amenity enjoyed by thousands all year round. Its uniqueness must be preserved.
"Council needs to think again and get a new way forward".
Plans for the new greenway have divided opinion, with almost £300,000 already having been spent on the project.
Supporters of the project had said it would have enhanced the health and wellbeing of the area and attracted more visitors to the region.
Green Party councilor Rachel Woods said the scrapped proposal would have led to "significant and disastrous environmental damage to certain areas of our coastal path".
