A new play park, a community garden over 30 allotment sites and a community hub have been created in the Drumtara Estate in Ballymena.

The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) fitted out Community House as well as providing the land for the allotments and play park.

Minister for Communities Paul Givan said: "It is clear that the new play park, garden and the Berries and Bloom allotments will deliver activities for both young and old in the Drumtara Estate. These communal spaces have already helped build local relationships, enabled the sharing of skills and will ultimately benefit those who use them with a healthier lifestyle.

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"It is also very evident that the opening of an unused Northern Ireland Housing Executive building as a new community facility will also benefit the people of Drumtara and wider Ballee area. Community House will be used by local people to engage with each other and increase pride, spirit and interest in local activities."

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough, Councillor Audrey Wales MBE said: "The people of Mid and East Antrim are already well known for their sense of community with this further addition of new social facilities – this time in Ballymena – being very welcome.

"I am quite sure that this fabulous play park, garden, allotments and the associated Community House will provide even more scope to further enhance our existing sense of community spirit."

(CD)