Key aspects of the proposed park area

    Community Zone 

    One of the primary drivers for redeveloping the site is the opportunity to provide a new shared, social space for cross community and multicultural activities. A footway will be provided via a new pedestrian access gate through the Westlink interface wall creating a connection to the site as well as a connection to the Forth Meadow Community Greenway effectively all the way to Glencairn. Initially there will be a soft opening of the gate starting with shorter opening hours progressing to longer hours.    

     

    Informal Play Zones

    The soft landscaped areas within the site will provide opportunities for nature-based play

     

    Formal Entrance Points

    The creation of formal entrance points at either end of the scheme will foster a sense of pride and provide a welcoming gateway into the community park shared space. 

    Proposed animation activities 

    • Cross Community Engagement / Focus Group Meetings (Before, during and after physical works).
    • Seasonal Animation and events Activity Programme (During & After Works) – engaging with children and young people.
    • Diversionary summer programme (During & After Works) engaging with young people to encourage site ownership and address sectarianism and racism
    • South and West Race Together - Cross community capacity building to develop a series of cross community fun runs to utilise new space, break down interface barriers and linkage with Forth Meadow.
    • Cross community Environmental Learning Programme at the site
    • Street Art Exhibitions
    • New Belfast - Working with newer community members to ensure representation at the site via cultural celebrations.  This activity will be working with a range of cultural backgrounds to ensure the site is animated to reflect new Belfast