A total of £65,000 funding has been awarded to upgrade an urban woodland in Newtownabbey, Co Antrim.

The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) handed over Monkstown Wood to the Woodland Trust almost 20 years ago.

The money will be invested in upgrade works including improved access, new and improved pathways, quaint stone walls, way-markers, benches and interpretation boards.

The funding is made up of £20,000 from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and almost £45,000 from Biffa Award.

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Following the handover, the conservation charity planted thousands of native trees and recently Monkstown Wood was declared a Local Nature Reserve in recognition of its importance to people and wildlife.

Sharon Crooks, NIHE's local Area Manager, said: "This wood is a wonderful natural environment for the local community to enjoy. Since the land was given over to the Woodland Trust it has been transformed. We're delighted the wood will be further enhanced for the benefit of local people."

Rosie Irwin from the Woodland Trust said: "This wood is already well used by local people and groups, from dog walkers to anglers. But, with the forthcoming improvements, we want to put Monkstown firmly on the map. We want it to become a favourite with everyone – nature lovers and visitors from further afield."

The work is expected to be completed by next spring.

(CD)