The transformation of a former army barracks in Co Down is set to benefit from £65 million in peace funding awards. This funding will also support the creation of an air dome in Londonderry and the enhancement of shared space at an interface in north Belfast. The projects were successful in securing investment through Peaceplus, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
In addition to the former army barracks in Ballykinlar, Co Down, other projects that will receive funding include a dome at the Ulster University in Derry for an indoor arena with a synthetic playing field and the capacity for thousands of spectators. The Reconnected Belfast project at the Waterworks and Alexandra Park aims to progress towards the removal of peace walls and enhance green space for local residents. The Riverine cross-border project will create 30 acres of parklands and a community pavilion building spanning from Strabane in Co Tyrone to Lifford in Co Donegal.
Furthermore, the Ballycastle Shared Space Project will enhance sports facilities on the grounds of the planned Shared Education Campus in the town, and investment will also be made in the Shannonside Peace Arena in Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim.
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons expressed his enthusiasm for the funding, emphasizing the importance of sustainable policies and programmes that provide lasting benefits. He congratulated the projects on securing funding for their proposals.
Irish Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, praised the projects for their transformational impact and support for economic and tourism opportunities. She highlighted the positive changes brought about by the development of shared spaces under previous peace programmes.
SEUPB chief executive Gina McIntyre noted the significant response to the funding call, indicating a strong public desire for shared spaces. She emphasized the role of shared civic spaces as catalysts for change and enhanced socio-economic environments, crucial for peacebuilding and reconciliation.
Peaceplus, co-funded by the European Union, the UK Government, the Irish Government, and the Northern Ireland Executive, aims to deliver six transformed and repurposed facilities for communities across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland. These facilities will provide safe, inclusive, and welcoming environments for people to collaborate and engage with one another.
