Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Seeks To Trademark ‘Visit Causeway Coast And Glens’ Logo

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has submitted a trademark application to secure legal rights over its 'Visit Causeway Coast and Glens' logo. The UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is currently examining the application.

The logo is a figurative mark, a type of trademark that combines visual elements such as stylised characters, unique layouts, and graphic features. Unlike word-only trademarks, figurative marks often include a distinct design element, making them more recognisable and distinguishable in the market.

What Trademarking a Figurative Mark Entails

Trademarking a figurative mark in the UK gives the council exclusive rights to the logo in connection with tourism and related services. Once the trademark is granted, no other entity will be legally permitted to use a similar or identical logo within the same business sector. 

One of the primary benefits of securing a figurative trademark is the ability to prevent market confusion.

In today’s competitive tourism landscape, the logo serves as a visual identity that helps visitors distinguish between official content produced by the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and other unofficial publications. 

Legal Protections and Responsibilities

Once approved, the trademark provides legal protection for 10 years, during which the council will hold the exclusive rights to use the logo across all its promotional materials, digital platforms, and merchandise. After this period, the trademark can be renewed, ensuring that the logo remains a protected asset for years to come.

The ® symbol alongside the logo signifies that it is a registered trademark, deterring unauthorised use by third parties. Should any businesses or individuals attempt to use a similar logo, the council will be legally empowered to take action to protect its brand. Depending on the severity of the infringement, this enforcement could range from issuing cease-and-desist orders to pursuing litigation.

A spokesperson for Tourism Northern Ireland said: “Tourism NI and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council work very closely together on a regular basis. Tourism NI is aware of the application and will work with the Council on this matter also.