Four villages in Mid Ulster have been upgraded thanks to funding of over £100,000.

Projects were delivered in Ballinderry, Ballylifford, Desertmartin and Longfield following an investment from the EU Rural Development 'LEADER' Programme.

The programme was delivered by Mid Ulster Rural Development Partnership on behalf of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, with Mid Ulster District Council providing 25% of the funding.

Works included new lighting around the football pitches in Ballinderry and Longfield, resurfacing of the carpark in Ballylifford, and an environmental scheme with new planting, paving and street furniture in Desertmartin.

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Speaking at the launch of these projects, Deputy Chair of Mid Ulster Rural Development Partnership and local Councillor Sean Clarke, said: "A total £2.15m in grant aid has been allocated to the LAG's Village Renewal Scheme in Mid Ulster part funded under Priority 6 (LEADER) of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the European Union. 


"Along with match funding from Mid Ulster Council this will total over £2.8m of investment in our rural towns and villages to improve the local environment and recreational facilities. The LAG considers the Village Renewal Scheme as the cornerstone of our Rural Strategy to improve the fabric of our towns and villages."

Mid Ulster District Council worked in partnership with local communities to bring the village renewal works to life.

(CM/MH)