Issue 222 - BT22 • BT23
Borough gains Blue Flag and Seaside Awards
The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, recently visited Bangor Marina and Groomsport Beach after their recent success in Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful’s Beach and Marina Awards. Bangor Marina has again received a Blue Flag award, one of the world’s most recognised standards for water quality, safety, accessibility and environmental management in marinas. Meanwhile, Groomsport beach was one of four beaches in the Borough that retained its Seaside Award status, with Ballywalter South Beach, Cloughey Beach and Millisle Beach also retaining the award. This award recognises these
Mayor Alistair Cathcart with Victoria PS students at Londonderry Play Park
New Play Parks in Bangor and Newtownards
The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, recently visited the new and refurbished play parks in Bangor’s Ward Park and Newtownards’ Londonderry Park. In Newtownards, the Mayor joined students from Victoria Primary School to try the new equipment. This £220,000 refurbishment has enhanced the park with modern, inclusive equipment and improved play features. Carnival
Promotions entertained pupils with a magic show, balloon modelling, and a lively disco. In Bangor, pupils from Bangor Central Integrated Primary School joined the Mayor in Ward Park to see the brand new play park after
its £250,000 investment. Vikki Lynn from Plant and Play provided engaging activities for the children to get involved in. These upgrades bring the parks up to contemporary standards, offering more inclusive
and exciting play experiences. Ards and North Down Borough Council is committed to enhancing its recreational spaces, with additional upgrades planned for Seapark in Holywood as well as other parks throughout the Borough.
beaches as being clean, safe and well-managed. The Mayor said: “Ards and North Down Borough Council continues to deliver high standards in environmental protection, sustainable tourism, and accessible coastal experiences. These awards are a testament to the tireless work of Council teams, volunteers, local businesses and partner organisations who work year-round to ensure our coastline is welcoming, clean and safe for everyone to enjoy.”