Plaza for Ahoghill is part of ambitious park plan

Proposals put forward by residents for the redevelopment of land in the village include exciting plans for a sprawling woodland attraction brimming with wildlife, meadows and wetlands.

A masterplan for the park was brought before Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Operational Committee last Monday.

It includes plans for a park plaza, café, boardwalk, natural play area, sensory and contemplative zones, a learning zone for children and adults, and a community art theme celebrating the agricultural heritage of the region.

Chairman of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Operational Committee, Ald John Carson, said: “Council is committed to continually improving our borough by increasing social, environmental and economic opportunities for our residents.

“We are delighted with the community’s response to the consultation.

“Green areas such as that proposed in Ahoghill provide a huge range of benefits for local people.

“These include improved mental health and wellbeing, increased physical activity, a reduction in anti-social behaviour and improvements in air quality.

“The latest proposals would transform the site into an oasis of wildlife, woodland, walkways and wetlands. Its creation would enhance the quality of life of residents in the area.”

An extensive consultation process drew feedback from a wide range of groups and provided an exciting vision for a secure and safe park to be enjoyed by the entire community.

Committee members were shown graphics and pictures of how the park could look after work on the council-owned site just off the Cardonaghy Road is completed.

Members of the community also suggested a range of activities they would like to see take place in the proposed park.

They included regular events and learning opportunities, biodiversity studies, gardening and/or allotment programmes, a place to relax for tea or coffee, and a men’s shed.

The ideas put forward through the consultation were considered by an external consultant who completed an outline design for the site.

Members of the Operational Committee agreed to proceed with further discussions around the current proposals.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has agreed to part-fund the project. External funding is being sourced to help make the vision for the area a reality.