A new sensory garden has opened at Antrim Castle Gardens, providing a welcoming, comfortable space for children and adults with autism, dementia and other sensory needs.

The second sensory garden in the Antrim and Newtownabbey borough, the £30,000 garden will be a therapeutic and calming outdoor sanctuary.

This facility was brought to life with funding by the Department for Communities' Access and Inclusion Programme and Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.

The cleverly designed garden has transformed the former bowling green area and now features new 2m pathways for easy access, sensory shrubs planted on raised beds as well as play equipment including wind chimes, stepping logs, balance beams, musical instruments and mirrors to stimulate the senses. Perfectly positioned benches also help its visitors to relax and admire the views of the garden.

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Speaking as he officially opened the new garden, the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Alderman Stephen Ross said: "I'm privileged to be launching this new sensory garden in Antrim, it's truly a wonderful asset that will greatly improve the physical fitness, health, and mood of children and adults with autism, dementia and other sensory needs. I am confident visitors to the garden will feel very happy and relaxed here."

Communities Minister, Deirdre Hargey added: "My Department's Access and Inclusion Programme is designed to help promote a more inclusive society by improving accessibility at arts, cultural and active recreation venues for people with disabilities who often have limited opportunities to participate in activities that many of us take for granted.

"I am aware of the many benefits that sensory gardens can provide particularly for children with learning difficulties and special needs and I welcome this addition to the facilities available at Antrim Castle Gardens."