(Image via DAERA)

The Minister said that thanks to his department’s Environment Fund, 47 projects including nature-rich trails, coastline protection and restoration of peatlands will now go head.

He made the announcement during a visit to Mourne Park, which was recently purchased by the Woodland Trust with support from DAERA’s Environment Fund (EF).

“Visiting Mourne Park today was incredible and a great chance to see how our Environment Fund has helped in the restoration of this special place of ancient woodland,” said Minister Poots.

“It is being managed in a way that will safeguard this special landscape that includes the flora, fauna and the views into and out from this gem of a site. And I believe today’s £4million announcement will deliver similar benefits by supporting Green Growth and proactively delivering opportunities so that people can spend time enjoying nature which benefits mental health and well-being.

“It brings to £7million the total amount of funding DAERA has invested this year alone in these environmental partnerships between the community, government and businesses. It shows that collectively we are doing all that we can to actively protect and enhance our varied countryside and wildlife,” he added.

Minister Poots said applications for the new EF funding were received from a range of ‘not for profit’ organisations and councils to help with nature recovery and to help connect people with nature.

“Projects range from the creation of nature-rich trails and walkways to outdoor recreation facilities which benefit our communities, to protection of our coastline and the restoration of peatlands and habitats.

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