NI Environment Minister Edwin Poots visited the Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre at Castle Espie to inspect the restoration project that his Department has co-funded.
Mr Poots praised staff at the complex for a unique and innovative approach, which has "seamlessly blended the local history and natural assets of the area with the technology of tomorrow".
Mr Poots said: "I welcome that my Department was able to grant aid this centre of excellence which provides opportunities to learn about wetland habitat restoration, local geology and archaeology."
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The Minister was particularly impressed with the low energy and renewable materials used in the design of the buildings.
As he toured the site, he also welcomed the significant improvements that have been made to the coastal and wetland habitats, which will benefit a wide variety of species including ringed plover, kingfishers and otters.
The minister also surveyed the views of Strangford Lough from the Brent bird hide, which had been extended as part of the restoration project.
He added: "This project, the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, perfectly complements the built and natural environment and is an inspirational example of how, in terms of sustainability and biodiversity, we can get it right."
(NS/BMcC)
