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Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon today announced plans to provide funding to support the ‘greening’ of alleyways across the North.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon during a visit to Ardmore/Rossmore Avenues alleyway in Belfast

The funding will support community led projects that make alleyways and other similar spaces more attractive through planting, as well as improving accessibility for walking, cycling and other activities which will enhance health and well–being for local residents.

Announcing the initiative, Minister Mallon said: 

“I am aware that a number of local communities have taken steps to ‘green’ alleyways and other similar spaces within their areas and the benefits that this brings.  I have seen this at first hand in Ardoyne in North Belfast and when in October I visited an example of such a scheme at Ardmore/Rossmore Avenues in Belfast and saw how it made a real difference to the lives of people living there.

“‘Greening’ alleyways not only helps to improve the appearance of these spaces but also helps to enhance community pride, reduce antisocial behaviour and generally improve the environment, helping to promote walking, cycling and other activities.  In June I announced a £20 million blue/green infrastructure fund which includes funding for community led projects supported by my Department to promote active travel and to shape our places to live in the new normal. I am delighted today to announce my commitment to fund these type of interventions, working in partnership with local Councils to improve the lives of their residents.

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