Park Gate Brings Down Community Barriers

Justice Minister David Ford is to officially open a gate in an interface barrier which has divided a park in north Belfast for 15 years.



The gate is part of a three month pilot scheme and the Minister will be joined by representatives from the local community, Groundwork NI and Belfast City Council to open it.



Mr Ford said: "The opening of the gate at Alexandra Park is an important day for the people of Northern Ireland because it challenges the belief that these structures must be a permanent feature.



"Through the work of the Alexandra Park Steering Group, and the commitment of Groundwork NI and Belfast City Council, they have shown that where there is the desire at community level for change, solutions to problems, no matter how difficult they seemed, can be found."

The Minister said that the opening up of the fence as part of a pilot project will hopefully result in it being opened on a more permanent basis, if that is the desire of the local community.


Mr Ford also commented that progress is being made on another interface barrier, stating: "I have agreed to transfer funding to the Department for Regional Development to enable them to carry out road works that will facilitate the opening of the security gate at the junction of Newington Street and the Limestone Road.



"It is a sign of real progress that the local residents in the Newington Street area feel the time is right to open this barrier. I commend the work done by local community representatives and other agencies, through the Interface Working Group, to bring about this change."

Funding from the Department of Justice to the Department for Regional Development will facilitate the day time opening of the security gate at the junction of Newington Street and Limestone Road.



Director of Groundwork NI, Sylvia Gordon, said: "Groundwork NI has worked closely with the Alexandra Park Steering Group, resident associations and community groups from both sides of the peace line to move the parks regeneration plans forward. Their vision and commitment to this project is to be commended.



"We are all now standing together on the cusp of change here in North Belfast, we hope that this new peace gate will act both as a catalyst and an inspiration for other interface areas-ultimately the power lies with the people when they decide the time is right for change."

Chairman of Belfast City Council's Parks and Leisure Committee, Councillor Steven Corr said: "Partnership is the important element in this project which has resulted in this lovely park being developed and enjoyed as a community space. Everyone has contributed to the changes we are celebrating today, and everyone can enjoy the recreation and health benefits that the park provides. 



"At a time of financial constraint £160,000 is no small investment but it is an investment in your local community from which we hope to see benefits for many years to come. I congratulate everyone involved for their dedication and commitment to this project and we look forward to your continued commitment in helping us maintain these improvements for the benefit of everyone in North Belfast."

(JG/DW)