Young people help re-shape Hillhall’s future

A number of local groups have been taking part in workshops including Barbour Nursery School, Largymore Primary and groups of local teenagers.

They have been involved in the process of designing, decorating and choosing colours for seating and sculpture that will eventually be made into community art and seating around the existing children’s play park in Hillhall estate.

Tracey Cassells, Principal of Barbour Nursery School, said: “Our school is delighted to be involved with Largymore Primary and older children to produce objects that can be used and enjoyed by the whole community.

“It is hoped that by giving local children the chance to be involved from the design stage, they will have a sense of pride in the project, and will look after the finished work and surrounding environment for many years to come.”

The Programme, which is funded by the Shared Communities Consortium, places artists in the heart of communities to work with local people to tackle visible signs of sectarianism and racism to create a more welcoming environment for everyone.

This £12,700 project is being delivered by Hillhall Regeneration group who are working in partnership with Groundwork NI and the artist Deborah Malcomson to bring this plans to fruition.

Groundwork NI have been giving technical assistance, helping the group to make a successful application to the Arts Council and then to successfully implement the project in partnership with Hillhall Regeneration Group.

Lisburn City Council and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive have been fully supportive of the project.

It is hoped that a formal launch of the completed seating and welcome feature will be held in late summer with all budding artists involved invited to attend the opening ceremony.