A new traffic-free woodland path has opened in the Waterside area of L'Derry, offering a calmer and safer alternative to busy roads.

The route links the Crescent Link with Kilfennan Country Park for residents of Fallowlea Park and the wider Caw community.

Delivered by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and funded by the Department for Communities, the project cost almost £28,000.

The Department for Communities secured money from the UK government’s 2022 Levelling Up Parks Fund, administered by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, to support the scheme.

The programme's aims include creating or significantly improving parks, green spaces and community gardens in deprived areas, and using a DEFRA contribution to plant trees.

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Eddie Doherty, Housing Executive West Area Manager, said: "We are delighted that Fallowlea Park is benefitting from such a practical and environmentally friendly addition to the area.

"Incorporating tree, bulb and whip planting along the path on this traffic-free walkway across land owned and maintained by the Housing Executive is sure to be a hit with all the family.

"Not only does it improve the aesthetics of the area, but I am confident it will also boost the well-being of the people living there by providing crucial access to quality green space, generating cleaner air and instilling pride of place among residents."

Sharon Mc Cullagh, Deputy Director, Community Empowerment Division, Department for Communities, added: "It is fantastic to see the improved walkway, planting and green space that is welcomed by the community.

"This project demonstrates the benefit of collaborative, partnership working which has resulted in improving the environment for residents of Caw and wider, enabling access to quality green space to increase health and well-being."