PLANS for the regeneration of Ballynahinch’s Lough Park will be unveiled to the public tomorrow.
A public consultation event has been arranged at Ballynahinch Market House, with a special invitation issued to all residents living around the Lough Park area.
The £600,000 investment into the underused grassland area was announced in November, with community allotments, playing fields, walkways and viewing platforms among the ideas up for consideration.
Environmental charity, Groundwork NI, is behind the project, which is part of a £3m EU PEACE III funded initiative.
After improving draining and upgrading pathways, other ideas include a full size soccer pitch, a small informal pitch, a community orchard, a raised picnic area and a possible island and water area for wildfowl habitat.
Down Council is expected to enter into into a lease agreement for the land, which borders the rear of Ballynahinch Community Centre and the Loughside Drive and Windmill Housing areas, at a later date.
Melvyn Waddell, Senior Project Officer at Groundwork NI, explained that the ‘Sharing Our Space’ initiative aimed to support communities tackling local division.
“Through the Sharing our Space programme Groundwork NI will work with the local community and other key stakeholders in Ballynahinch to promote sharing and positive usage of the local space and facilities at Lough Park,” he said
“We would encourage local residents, community representatives and groups to review the proposed plans and provide feedback to Groundwork on any aspects of the planned regeneration works.
“This is an opportunity for people to express their views and opinions first hand and get actively involved in shaping this project within their local area.”
Groundwork NI staff members will be present at this consultation event to liaise with the public on the proposed plans. The plans can be viewed between 9am and 8pm.