Issue 248 - East Down BT24 • BT30 • BT31 • BT33
New Biodiversity Strategy
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has launched a new Biodiversity Strategy for 2024-2030, a comprehensive guide dedicated to protecting and enhancing local habitats and species within the district over the next six years.
Attendeees at the sod cutting ceremony to mark the start of construction at Dunleath Urban Sports Park.
New Urban Sports Park build underway A sod cutting ceremony has marked the official start of construction work on the Dunleath Urban Sports Park, paving the way for a cutting-edge skatepark and pump track. The Newry, Mourne and Down District Council project is supported by major funding from the Department for Communities (DfC) with up to £439,032.28 allocated by them towards the project, with the Council contributing an additional £74,527.61.
This combined investment of £513,559.89 will deliver state-of-the-art facilities to Downpatrick, designed to enhance community health and wellbeing while revitalising the local area. The project will be constructed by
civil engineering and construction firm CivCo Ltd. The development will feature an 80-metre pump track (approximated), incorporating a dynamic series of banked turns and undulations, alongside a state-of-the-art 400m² skatepark. The skatepark
will include ramps and grind rails as trick features, offering an exciting and modern space for urban sports enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
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The strategy reflects the Council’s commitment to safeguarding biodiversity for future generations. Focusing on five themes including trees and woodland, pollinators, invasive species, education and awareness, the strategy outlines clear, practical steps which the Council will take to protect, enhance and restore biodiversity. The Strategy will ensure the Council’s greenspaces will be managed more effectively for the benefit of both wildlife and the local community. Speaking at the launch, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne said, “Our district is renowned for its stunning landscapes, scenery and unique biodiversity. The Council has a responsibility to protect and conserve
our biodiversity, not just for ourselves, but for future generations. This strategy is a vital step in ensuring that our district continues to thrive, both ecologically and as a place where people love to live and visit.” The Biodiversity Strategy is designed to work in synergy with the aims and objectives of the Council’s various other national, regional and local plans including the Council Corporate Plan and Local Climate Adaptation Plan which is currently being drafted. A copy of the Biodiversity Strategy can be downloaded from the Council’s website: https://www. newrymournedown.org/ biodiversity For more information on the Biodiversity Strategy and how you can do your part please contact: besustainable@nmandd.org