Housing plan threatens to derail green plans for Newtownards

Branch Out Community has been working hard to improve the community spaces around the County Down tow,n but have been thwarted in their plans to develop derelict land adjacent to Talbot Street.

Pamela Shaw runs the charitable organisation and sees the need for more community spaces.

“We need a quality green space in Newtownards where people can come to relax, meet other people, get involved in the community and host events,” Pamela said.

“This site is accessible to everyone across Newtownards as it is a five-minute walk from the bus station and on the bus route to Bangor and the Glen Estate.”

Branch Out Community has already developed a smaller area that was previously a site of anti-social behaviour into a more welcoming space, which includes a community orchard.

But plans to expand the project further have been derailed as the former railway site the group had wanted to use is the only greenfield site left in the town.

Despite receiving support from the Ards and North Down Borough Council, they have encountered difficulties with the Department of Infrastructure who have said the land should be used for housing developments. The land is now valued at £750,000.

The group have written to Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd and have met with several other politicians to try and find a solution.

Branch Out Community’s Board and volunteers, however, are keen to keep working towards providing something the whole town can appreciate.

“We want to develop a park that has a woodland feel within an urban area,” Pamela explains.

“It will be divided into four individual areas with a heritage orchard, vegetable growing space, cut flower gardens and a large recreational area.

“Areas will be designated for wildlife, learning and events. The park has been laid out this way to allow for activity-based volunteering and skills training. We intend to run educational courses, focusing on health and well-being, and community cohesion.”

The lack of green space in Newtownards is also a factor for the environment, Pamela explains:

“Our hedgehog population is in massive decline with an increase of cars on the road and limited access through gardens,” she said.

“They also need to have a food source, which means attracting insects to the site. Mature trees are constantly being cut down for development which reduces the available habitats for bats and birds.

“There are very few meadow areas left as most of the land is used for agriculture. We need insects for pollination and healthy ecosystems to decrease the risk of floods, create windbreaks and keep our soils healthy.”

The Branch Out Community founder said that the site is also planned as being accessible:“It is a relatively flat area which makes it an ideal spot for anyone with mobility issues to get involved.

“Newtownards is surrounded by scenic areas, but they are all in hilly areas and require private transport to access them.”

That has not deterred them from pressing on with work on the existing smaller project as they also want to develop the site to act as a community forest school.

“Traditionally forest schools are expensive to join,” said Pamela.

“We want to offer the children of this community access to the same opportunities without the burden of cost. We have also begun planting trees, shrubs, vegetables and herbs that can be foraged by anyone that is passing through.

“We will offer information sessions, skills training and run community events to bring local people together.”

Pamela is keen that anyone who wants to, should get involved with the group and their existing project.

“This is a community project. We want your input and ideas,” she explained.

“The whole point of doing it is that local people can use the area for things that interest them. We can build it around the wants and needs of the community so come along and get involved, even if you aren't able to help us physically we still want your ideas and support.”

Further information is available on Branch Out Community’s Facebook page: facebook.com/branchoutcommunitygroup