Other News In Brief

Sustrans Volunteers Recognised In Belfast

Volunteers who dedicate their time to encouraging others to walk and cycle more have been celebrated at the Sustrans Volunteer Awards in Belfast.

An essential element to the promotion of active travel, local volunteers gained recognition at The Duncairn Centre for Culture and Arts this week.

John Lucas rolled away with the Sustrans 'Volunteer of the Year Award for Northern Ireland' for his support shown towards individuals taking part in group led rides and activities on the greenways.

Mr Lucas said: "The volunteer award day was excellent, it was particularly pleasing for me as I got the volunteer award and it is always satisfying to have your contribution recognised, but it was also a great opportunity to catch up with other Sustrans volunteers and staff."

Sustrans Volunteer Co-ordinator, Rachael Ludlow-Williams offered her congratulations, saying: "John has been extremely warm and welcoming to people returning to cycling and given them additional support which really helps them to get back to cycling regularly.

"John has supported staff in organising led rides which are open to everyone, giving confidence to those taking part, and encouraging more people to cycle.

"John has also helped to maintain the signage on NCN route 9, the Lagan Towpath."

Sustrans also awarded a Certificate of Appreciation to the Active Travel Hub volunteer group. These volunteers are people ready to help out at the great variety of events offered free at CS Lewis Square, East Belfast.

These range from led rides and walks to spin art bike, fayres and bike maintenance, encouraging people to come to the hub, find out about the best cycle routes for daily journeys and be the warm happy face of Sustrans.

Infrastructure Minister Challenged Over Importance Of Cross-Border Bridge

The government has come under pressure to press on with the long-delayed Narrow Water Bridge which would connect Counties Down and Louth.

The structure, which was originally due to open in 2015, was hit with several delays, problems and even scrapped altogether. With plans for the project still alive, Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has been urged to state whether it is a priority for her Department.

Challenging Minister Mallon, Sinn Féin MLA Sinead Ennis said: "Narrow Water bridge is a vital piece of infrastructure for the Mourne, Gullion and Cooley region.

"It would enhance business and investment opportunities, create jobs and strengthen the tourism potential for the entire area.

"The bridge was included in the New Decade, New Approach deal with commitments for delivery made by both the British and Irish governments.

"The minister needs to facilitate discussions with both governments to make sure this vital project is delivered.

"That includes placing Narrow Water Bridge on the agenda at the next meeting of the North/South Ministerial Council.

"I will continue to press the Infrastructure Minister to progress this essential project that has been delayed for far too long."

Community Hub Opens In Crumlin

The County Antrim town of Crumlin has been boosted with the launch of a new community hub.

Over £50,000 was invested to refurbish the upstairs of the Crumlin United FC Club House into an accessible community space.

The facility benefited from a grant of £37,500 through the Basic Services scheme of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded through the European Union and Department of Agriculture, Environment & Rural Affairs and administered locally by GROW South Antrim. Financial support was also received from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and through fundraising.

Pakenham Community Limited has officially opened the new facility, which is already being used by a wide range of community groups, such as Crumlin Pensioners, Weight Watchers, Crumlin Stitching and Cooking Group.

Tom McPeake, Crumlin Utd FC chairman said: "We are delighted to open the community hub at the club. There has been a lot of work put into the community hub concept and to see it open is a major step forward in terms of our overall vision – to be a community club. I would like to thank GROW and Antrim and Newtownabbey Council for the support provided. Their support has made this project a reality and is already making a difference in terms of community engagement and cohesion."

Bob Adams, Vice Chair of GROW added: "This project is an excellent example of a community identifying a need for improved community space, and working together to make this happen. We are delighted to have supported the project and to see how well the facility is already being used."



(JG/CM)