A new landscaped community square has been opened for local people in north Belfast following a contribution of £36,000 from the Housing Executive.

Around 600 square meters of unused land at Hogarth Street in Tiger's Bay has been transformed into a green parkland, featuring trees, shrubs, grassy areas, seating, landscaped mounds and walkways. The Housing Executive’s ground maintenance team plans to plant 6,000 trees in Belfast in 2024.

Malachy Brennan, the Housing Executive’s grounds services manager, said: "This is a bright new amenity which will look even better as the trees and shrubs blossom and grow. As the weather improves in the spring and summer, the plants will come into their own creating an ideal spot for residents to come and sit in the sunshine, have a chat or read. Mums and toddlers can meet up and older residents can spend a few pleasant hours enjoying the garden atmosphere. We this this is a fantastic asset for the community and we really hope that they enjoy it."

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Councillor Fred Cobain said: "The local community would like to thank the Housing Executive for their hard work and dedication in assisting in the goal to transforming and bringing back to life this important site.

This will bring locals together to work positively for the betterment of our local communities."

Gerard Flynn, the Housing Executive’s area manager for North Belfast, said: "This project is part of our ongoing work to enhance the streets and to make our communal areas more welcoming and pleasant places to be. We hope that this sociable and attractive space will be a focal point where people can connect with each other and improve their mental health and wellbeing."