A celebration event has been held to mark the completion of the £7M Connecting Pomeroy project and to officially open the new Pomeroy Forestry Building.

The event took place at the new Pomeroy Forest Building, attended by First Minister Michelle O’Neill MLA and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly MLA.

Construction of the new state-of-the-art visitor centre commenced in January 2023 and along with the associated community facilities works, accounted for £5.5M of the £7M project, which is supported by the EU’s PEACE IV Programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).

The key project element was the creation of a series of magical trails through Pomeroy Forest, featuring 18 nature-based sculptures that can be used as an interactive play experience, and an immersive nature trail that showcases the flora and fauna of the forest.

The new visitor centre at Pomeroy Forest completed as part of the project will also serve as a shared community building. It offers a large multi-use space, complete with retractable seating for approximately 150 people, two multi-purpose rooms, a coffee dock area, toilets, changing facilities and kitchen.

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Significant improvement works were also carried out at several community facilities, including the construction of a gym and changing facilities at Pomeroy GFC, a new multi-use games area at the Presbyterian Church Hall and a new Church of Ireland Hall.

A Public Realm Scheme in the village was also completed as part of the £7M investment featuring a new streetscape, street furniture, improved lighting with safe walking links created to the new shared facilities.

The central objective of the PEACE IV project in Pomeroy was to create a more cohesive society through an increased provision of shared spaces and services.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill said: "I am delighted to be here at the celebration event of The Connecting Pomeroy project. It offers a place where people from all walks of life can come together, enjoy nature and build lasting connections, encouraging us to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds us and the diverse community we are proud to be part of. It is a real testament to our commitment to fostering strong community ties, enhancing our shared spaces and shows what can be achieved when we work together towards a common goal."

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: "It is a real privilege to be able to join with you all today as we celebrate the completion Connecting Pomeroy project through the PEACE IV Programme. This significant investment will not only enhance cross-community cooperation, but also promote lasting peace and prosperity in our communities. I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in bringing this project to life. Your efforts have not only created a beautiful space, but also a symbol of our collective commitment to building a better, more inclusive community."