The Housing Executive has announced that Carnhill in L'Derry was chosen as the first site to launch the green space improvement scheme.

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities provided over £340,000 to the Department for Communities (DfC) to fund the creation or improvement of green spaces.

Through the Community Empowerment Division (CED), the Department has worked with the Housing Executive as a delivery partner on this scheme, which includes £79,000 for tree planting alone.

Eddie Doherty, Housing Executive West Area Manager said: "We're delighted that Carnhill was chosen as the first site to launch this fantastic project – one of a number of new tree planting schemes.

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"I'm delighted to see the completion of this project, which improves the aesthetics of the area and hopefully enhances the well-being of the people living there.

"It provides crucial access to quality green space, generates cleaner air and hopefully instils pride of place among local residents.

"In addition to the Carnhill tree planting initiative, more are planned across Derry City and Strabane District Council area including; Ballymagroarty, Drumard Park, Marianus Park, Drumleck Gardens and Clonmeen, Strathfoyle."

Tony Murphy, DfC, stated: “This project will have a positive impact on Carnhill and the other areas by transforming the existing unused space into a welcoming place for all to use and enjoy.

"As part of the wider environmental aspect of the project we will see over 1,400 trees planted on Housing Executive land, as well as the establishment of community gardens and growing spaces in other areas."