Local Ballyclare company idverde, has been appointed to undertake a £500,000 investment project across Doagh, Burnside and Templepatrick.

Primarily funded by the Small Settlements Covid Recovery Programme, this investment will see five Environmental Improvement Schemes across the villages.

The Small Settlements Covid Recovery Fund is a fund provided by DfC, Department for Infrastructure (DfI) and Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to support the recovery of our small settlements following the Covid pandemic.

The Environmental Improvement Scheme is set to deliver significant investment in five designated areas, notably Doagh Square, Templepatrick roundabouts, Anderson Park and Burnside. The intention is to create new, vibrant spaces which the community can be proud of and enjoy together. The initiative will involve the establishment of new walking and cycling paths, installation of additional seating and greenery, as well as upgrades to paving and surfacing, alongside improvements to local facilities in each respective area.

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Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Cllr Mark Cooper BEM said: "I am delighted that the Council has been able to bring forward this level of investment for these rural communities through the departments. This level of investment is significant and will bring major improvements to the environment in these villages."

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said: "This investment reflects my department’s commitment to the recovery of rural communities following the challenges of the Covid pandemic. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of these enhancements on the lives of local residents in Doagh, Burnside and Templepatrick."

Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd stated: "The Small Settlements Regeneration Programme is a great example of inter Departmental working to deliver real change in how people live and work in the post pandemic world. I am delighted that my Department was able to contribute to this programme which supports initiatives on the ground and has already brought tangible benefits to our rural communities."

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir, said: "My Department, through the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Programme, continues to work in partnership across central and local government to deliver projects which are helping to transform rural villages and town centres. This partnership approach to delivery has a catalysing effect on rural settlements, creating additional opportunities for increased social interaction and economic regeneration, which in turn helps address poverty and social isolation issues in rural areas."

Trevor Spence, idverde Operations Director commented: "As a local Ballyclare company, idverde is honoured to work with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and the departments on this major investment project. We look forward to commencing the works and creating new, vibrant spaces that everyone can enjoy for years to come."

Works are set to begin in early summer 2024 and Council will be reaching out to local residents and businesses with further information throughout the duration of the investment project.