Securing ‘green space’ for Maghera

He said: “Over the past year, I have been working closely with senior council officers, to explore ways to make our open green space more accessible for everyone living in the wider Maghera area, as well as visitors to an area of great historical and cultural significance. Having been determined to unlock open green space on the edge of town, I am now confident that this exploration will soon conclude positively. A fantastic opportunity awaits to deliver further on what the people of Maghera have been calling for.

“We know the importance of having open access to our natural environment in terms of increasing mobility, promoting healthy lifestyles and positive mental health etc.

“The Largantogher Walkway which connects The Walled Garden and Old St Lurach’s Church, which is a historical site of great ecclesiastical importance, with the Tobermore Road, has been greatly appreciated by local people as well as visitors to our area. Council is most determined to deliver on the demands of Maghera residents for increased access to our natural environment.”

He added that having spearheaded the drive for such a community resource and having actively engaged with the Maghera community to ensure their real needs were included in ‘Maghera 2017-2030: A Physical Development Framework and Action Plan’ and he was pleased to be involved in the delivery of the documents findings.