Other News In Brief

Belfast City Council Commit Funding To Three Climate Action Projects

Belfast City Council has committed £75,000 to three projects that support the city's climate action plan in the run-up to COP26.

Elected Members have given the green light to three projects: Linen Quarter BID for its Festival of the Circular Economy; a legacy programme by Common Purpose, and a contract with The Woodland Trust for additional support to the Belfast One Million Trees initiative, which is coordinated by Belfast City Council.

Welcoming the funding, Councillor Aine Groogan, Chair of Belfast City Council's Strategic Policy and Resources Committee said: "The world's most significant climate summit COP26 is fast approaching so it is timely for Belfast to be making further strides in the battle against climate change.

"Action on climate is something we must all take responsibility for; it is not up to one organisation or group of individuals – we all have a role to play, and I'm pleased that we are able to support these programmes which align with the goals of our climate action plan for the city.

Councillor Groogan added: "As a Council we remain focused on the climate emergency and our aim to transition Belfast to an inclusive, low-carbon, climate- resilient economy within a generation. Our involvement in COP26 will undoubtedly benefit Belfast and have a transformative effect on the social, economic and environmental future for us all."

New Safe Community Space Created For Young People In Portadown

A new space has been created in Portadown for young people to come together and enjoy interacting in a safe environment.

The space was created by local volunteers at The Y Zone Youth Project with a small grants funding programme from Live Here Love Here, in partnership with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.

Campbell Best, Project Co-ordinator at The Y Zone Youth-hut Initiative and the team of dedicated volunteers have transformed a site at Foundry Street into a place where young people can gather, enjoy being together and even pick up some new skills. The site was purchased by Portadown Elim Church 6 years ago, and is earmarked for the site of a new church building facility.

Lord Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Glenn Barr, said: "The transformation of this area has been fantastic and is much needed for young people in the town who are always looking for somewhere safe to meet up with their friends.

"We are delighted that they were able to secure this funding and to put it towards such a worthwhile project that has so much to give now, and in the future. I look forward to seeing Project Eden develop over the coming months and years."

Appeal For Information On Attempted Hijacking In North Belfast

Police in North Belfast have issued an appeal for information following an attempted hijacking.

According to reports, a man armed with a suspected firearm forced a lorry driver from his vehicle as it was parked on the Hillview Road at about 1.30pm on Thursday 09 September.

The lorry as then set alight. Police say that the vehicle was "completely destroyed" in the incident.

Anyone with information on the incident, specifically anyone who may have witnessed the attempted hijacking, is asked to contact police.