Stoneyford village in Country Antrim has been upgraded after a recent investment through the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme.

A number of streetscape improvements were delivered in the area as well as a freshening up of the arterial route through the village with the installation of ornamental floral display baskets. New outdoor gym equipment was also installed at the local children's play park.

During the initial consultations residents talked fondly of how the name for the village came from the original stone wall on the bridge at the heart of the village, and the natural stone was restored on the bridge as part of the scheme.

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Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council supported the development of the scheme, with further funding support from the NI Rural Development Programme through Lagan Rural Partnership.

Alderman Allan Ewart MBE, Chair of the Council's Development Committee and Chair of Lagan Rural Partnership, said: "The regeneration of our villages is important and I am delighted that elements of the history of the village have been included in this modernisation scheme. The village looks fresh and inviting and the introduction of adult gym equipment in the children's play park has made this a shared space for all. I recognise the economic benefits such a scheme can have in a small rural community and it contributes to a cohesive and inclusive rural community."

Stoneyford was shortlisted as one of five villages to receive funding through the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme: Rural Village Renewal Scheme.

(CM/JG)