A disused green space in Broughshane, Co Antrim, has been transformed into a new Sensory Garden for children with a wide range of needs to enjoy.

The development, designed by Whitehead woman, Janet Crymble, and constructed by The Conservation Volunteers, features specific areas to meet a range of needs - quiet, sensory, active - and wild areas to enhance biodiversity. It includes new fencing and an access gate, sensory surfaces, mud kitchen, sensory play, raised beds, sensory pod and potting area and a range of sensory planting.

Speaking at the opening, Kenny Henry of The Conservation Volunteers said: "The Conservation Volunteers are delighted to have been invited to deliver this wonderful project for the children and young people of Broughshane.

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"We have enjoyed working in partnership with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and the legacy councils for many years.

"It is great to see the council delivering on its Community Plan commitments by providing quality green spaces which will improve health and wellbeing, and environmental and educational needs within the local community."

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor William McCaughey also welcomed the development, highlighting the importance of safe outdoor spaces.

"Research shows us that getting outdoors in the fresh air and enjoying nature can have many longstanding health and wellbeing benefits," he said. "I am sure the new addition of the Sensory Garden will be a great addition for the children of Broughshane, particularly those with additional sensory needs."

The garden was made possible thanks to Access and Inclusion funding secured in 2020 from the Department for Communities. It will be developed further this winter with the planting of fruit trees.