Community spirit at heart of new artwork in Castlemara

Led by Castlemara Community Association, the project was created with the help of the estate’s younger residents.

Reading ‘Welcome to Castlemara’, the signpost features some very recognisable local motifs such as the castle, the seafront and even Prince George, son of Baron and Baroness Carrickfergus.

Susanne Campbell from Castlemara Community Association said: “Up until now we never had a signpost to tell people that this was the entrance to Castlemara; even the sign for Castlemara Drive only went up recently.

“It’s in a great place as you can see it from the main road.”

The project began at the end of June, with artist Fionnuala Duffin leading creative workshops for local children.

“The kids were involved in picking the themes like the castle and the boats, and they worked at for a few weeks down at the Oakfield Centre,” added Susanne.

“We’ve had good feedback about the sign from the adults in the estate as well; they think it looks fantastic.”

Funding for the artwork was drawn from the Carrickfergus Good Relations Programme managed by Carrickfergus Borough Council, along with the EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation (PEACE III).

The project is the latest in a series of community-based initiatives in the area, explained Good Relations officer Fiona Surgenor.

“Back in July, we worked with Castlemara Community Association to organise a carnival in place of a bonfire on the 11th, which went very well,” Fiona said.

“There were also a number of Peace III workshops at Carrickfergus College around the time of the World Cup that the kids got very enthused about.”

There are also hopes of establishing a community allotment site in the estate, added Susanne: “The allotment would be suitable for all abilities and we’re hoping to get it in the next few months.”