A Green Infrastructure Plan has been launched for L'Derry city and the Strabane area.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor John Boyle, unveiled the plan at the Green Infrastructure and Climate Change Conference in Guildhall yesterday, 12 March.

Green Infrastructure (GI) is an interconnected network of multi-functional green and blue spaces, which provide multiple environmental, economic and social benefits.

The GI Plan 2019 – 2032 is linked to the Local Development Plan and the Strategic Growth Plan and will deliver benefits across four key themes to include people and place; economic prosperity; biodiversity; and climate change.

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Mayor Boyle said: "This is a hugely significant document that has the potential to make real and lasting changes to our local environment. We really want to engage with the public and get everyone to have their say on the plan and get involved in bringing about real and positive change for our future."

Speaking at the launch, Christine Doherty, Council's Lead Officer for Green Infrastructure, explained: "The GI Plan is a radical new approach that requires a change to the way we think about and value our green and blue spaces. It highlights that these areas provide a range of benefits including providing ecosystem services - essential benefits that people obtain from the environment - helping mitigate the impact of climate change, improving public parks, play areas, food-growing opportunities and the development of greenways."

Consultation is now underway on the plan, with events scheduled for Wednesday 20 March at the Guildhall and Thursday 21 March at the Alley Theatre in Strabane from 1-8pm.

(CM)