An outdoor area in Portadown, Co Armagh, has been transformed into a new safe space for young people in the area.

Local volunteers at The Y Zone Youth Project delivered work under 'Project Eden' with support from a small grants funding programme from Live Here Love Here, in partnership with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. The investment enabled the purchase of plants, shrubs, garden tools, weed membrane, planters, stones/gravel and railway sleepers from local businesses.

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Project Co-ordinator at The Y Zone Youth-hut Initiative, Campbell Best worked with volunteers to repurpose a site at Foundry Street into a place where young people can gather. This forms part of his work with 'at-risk' young people in the town. The site was purchased by Portadown Elim Church six years ago, and is earmarked for the site of a new church building facility.

"The transformation of this area has been fantastic and is much needed for young people in the town who are always looking for somewhere safe to meet up with their friends," commented the Lord Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Glenn Barr.

"We are delighted that they were able to secure this funding and to put it towards such a worthwhile project that has so much to give now, and in the future. I look forward to seeing Project Eden develop over the coming months and years."