Ards and North Down Borough Council is a member of the East Border Region (EBR). As a partner, the Council has historically availed of opportunities to be part of a Tourism Thematic Partner Group, to assess the viability of submission of applications for funding. EBR has been actively looking at the various Investment Areas under PEACEPLUS.
A Heritage Cross Trails project has been identified, as one which has the potential to be submitted as an application under Investment Area 4.2:- Rural Regeneration and Social Inclusion.
The Project
The PEACEPLUS Heritage Cross Trails project is being led by EBR in partnership with several other Councils on a cross-border basis. It will deliver inclusive shared space within the local area.
Locally the project will see the:
- Enhancement and creation of potentially up to three outdoor trails and installation of signage work (heritage and biodiversity) to increase links between existing green infrastructure, community heritage, increase tourism, building cross-community outdoor access and services, and provide better health outcomes.
- Promote the development of new and innovative approaches to tackling poverty and social isolation in rural areas through outdoor recreation.
Three key sites have been identified within Ards and North Down Borough due to their community trail assets, which fit with the criteria set out by PEACEPLUS.
- Sketrick Island (Whiterock Car Park to serve as trailhead)
- Island Hill
- Glastry Clay Pits
The purpose of this survey is to establish how and which Social Enterprises could be involved in the delivery of this project. The survey contains more information regarding that element. If your Social Enterprise could benefit from potential participation please complete the survey.
Closing date is 22 December 2023.