Significant upgrades have been proposed to a few park and open spaces in North Belfast.

A four-week consultation has been launched on the proposals from Belfast City Council and the Urban Villages Initiative (UVI).

The plans include an upgrade to Marrowbone Park and initial steps to create new public space within the Ballysillan Playing Fields site. 

The Marrowbone plans focus on improving facilities, safety and accessibility and propose a complete renewal of the existing park facilities to make it a welcoming, safe and shared space.

A wider and longer 3G pitch along with a new changing pavilion and a multi-use games area have been proposed. The council also wishes to install improved lighting, boundary fencing and new entrances to the park.

-- Advertisement --

In relation to Ballysillan, a longer term development is being drawn up for a new public space within Ballysillan Playing fields.

Proposed facilities include an additional synthetic pitch, a cycle track, play area, dog park, enhancements to the community gardens and Parkrun routes, as well as events space for local community groups to enjoy outdoor events such as summer festivals, concerts, community fun days, markets and fairs.

Linsey Farrell, Programme Director, the Urban Villages Initiative, said: "We are delighted to be investing in improving parks and open spaces for the communities in the North Belfast Urban Village area. We are fortunate to have the expertise of Belfast City Council as our delivery partners for these two projects which gives us assurance of a high quality development.

"We are confident that the upgrade of Marrowbone Park and the development of the playing fields in Ballysillan will significantly contribute to creating thriving places for the people of north Belfast."

Feedback from both consultations will be used by UVI to put together a business case, including cost and plan revisions, before submitting for planning permission. 

Details on public consultation events or how to participate online is available here.

(CM)