Nature reserve part of new dawn for Killough

Nature reserve part of new dawn for Killough

18 February 2015

A NEW nature reserve is one of the ambitious targets being proposed in a new village plan for Killough.

The plan, which was unveiled this week, proposes 30 projects including the designation of the picturesque Strand Lough and Ballast Yard as the new nature reserve.

Protecting the visually striking sycamore tree-lined Main Street is another key aspect of the plan, which calls for Killough’s conservation area — established in 1981— to be refreshed.

The wide-ranging plan, which maps out how Killough can develop over the next five years, will be discussed by residents this Saturday morning.

Covering a large area stretching from St. John’s Point to Rossglass and including agricultural land towards Downpatrick, the plan highlights the need for urgent repairs to the village windmill at the Millfield and has suggestions for its future use as part of an architectural competition. 

The creation of new biodiversity, nature and heritage trails and enhanced walking and cycling routes are also proposed.

Elsewhere, the reinstatement of the railway bridge across Strand Lough is highlighted as a future project that could open new connections for residents and visitors.

The plan highlights the “significant opportunities” presented by Killough’s vacant buildings and sites and calls for discussions with landowners and relevant statutory agencies. The upgrade of the village’s youth and community hall, described as a “valuable asset,” is suggested to increase its use and land at the rear has been identified as beneficial for development for the community.

The feasibility of creating start-up space for local businesses, entrepreneurs, creatives and artists should be “carefully considered” to establish demand and potential support from statutory agencies according to the plan. An investigation into the potential for existing education providers to share resources and space is recommended to ensure future sustainability and enable growth.

Developing Killough’s outdoor sports facilities is highlighted in the plan, with suggestions for a feasibility study to be undertaken to consider the most appropriate sports facility and location.

Other proposals include a new 3G pitch at Millfield, water-based activities in the bay, upgrading the former lifeboat house and creating a walking and cycling route.

Saturday’s unveiling of the new plan at the village’s youth and community hall is being organised by the Killough Community Association, in partnership with Lecale Conservation and Palatine Trust, a local buildings preservation trust.

Community group chairman, Liam Sharvin, said he hopes people will attend not only to inform themselves, but to express an interest to become involved in one of the over 30 projects identified in the plan. 

He said more projects and activities could be pursued but that more people are needed to volunteer their time and energy to make them happen. 

Doris Noe, chairman of Lecale Conservation, said the Lecale area has a very rich fabric of built and natural heritage which gives it a unique sense of place. 

“There are many buildings and sites surrounding Killough which have been classified as positive assets in the plan and there is potential to secure funding to enhance them,” she said.

The full plan, produced by Planning, Landscape Architecture, Community and Environment Ltd (PLACE) after it was appointed by Lecale Conservation, in partnership with the Palatine Trust, is available to download at www.killoughvillageplan.org.