£500k investment announced for Doagh, Burnside and Templepatrick

Ballyclare-based company idverde has been appointed by Antrim and Newtownabbey Council, in collaboration with Department for Communities (DfC), to undertake the significant investment project.

This investment, primarily funded by the Small Settlements Covid Recovery Programme, will see five Environmental Improvement Schemes created at locations including Doagh Square, Templepatrick roundabouts, Anderson Park and Burnside, with the intention of creating new, vibrant spaces the community can be proud of and enjoy together.

The Small Settlements Covid Recovery Fund is provided by DfC, Department for Infrastructure and Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to support the recovery of small settlements following the pandemic.

The initiative will see the creation of walking trails, cycling trails, seating and planting, paving and surfacing as well as enhancements to facilities.

Angeline McWilliams, Chair, Doagh Village Community Association, said: “We're delighted to see this significant investment being made. The proposed improvements will help transform the heart of the village, reflecting and celebrating the area's rich cultural and industrial heritage while creating beautiful spaces for the community to enjoy.”

A spokesperson for Templepatrick Action Community Association, stated: “We’re pleased to hear the latest news regarding the programme and eagerly await communication from the council regarding its inclusion.

"We’d urge that the funding be used to support projects that were suggested to the council by the community in January 2022 when the programme was initially discussed.”

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Cllr Mark Cooper BEM said: “I’m delighted council has been able to bring forward this level of investment for these rural communities through the departments. This level of investment is significant and will bring major improvements to the environment in these villages.”

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA added: “This investment reflects my department’s commitment to the recovery of rural communities following the challenges of the Covid pandemic. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of these enhancements on the lives of local residents in Doagh, Burnside and Templepatrick.”

Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd explained: “The Small Settlements Regeneration Programme is a great example of inter Departmental working to deliver real change in how people live and work in the post pandemic world.

"I’m delighted that my Department was able to contribute to this programme which supports initiatives on the ground and has brought tangible benefits to our rural communities.”

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir stated: “My Department, through the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Programme, continues to work in partnership across central and local government to deliver projects which are helping to transform rural villages and town centres.

"This partnership approach to delivery has a catalysing effect on rural settlements, creating additional opportunities for increased social interaction and economic regeneration, which in turn helps address poverty and social isolation issues in rural areas.”

Trevor Spence, idverde Operations Director commented: “As a Ballyclare company, idverde is honoured to work with the council and departments on this major investment project. We look forward to commencing the works and creating new, vibrant spaces that everyone can enjoy.”

A council spokesperson confirmed the works are due to commence “in early summer 2024”, adding the council will be “reaching out to residents and businesses with further information throughout the duration of the project.”