Seven Parklets Installed in Ards and North Down

Monday 10th July 2023

Ards and North Down Borough Council has installed seven new community spaces across the Borough, giving residents and visitors the opportunity to take a break and enjoy our outdoor spaces.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, enjoying an ice cream at a parklet in Comber.

The new parklets were funded by the Covid-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme, which was introduced in 2020 and delivered through a joined-up approach between the Department for Communities, the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, the Department for Infrastructure, and local councils.

The programme provided funding for creating measures that offer safe and welcoming retail experiences, helping to provide a boost to retailers by encouraging people to spend more time in our city and town centres.

After consulting with Town/City Advisory Groups, Ards and North Down Borough Council agreed to install three parklets in Bangor, three in Newtownards and one in Comber. These areas have been transformed into new community spaces that offer seating and tables for residents and visitors to relax.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, said:

“Our Borough’s parklets have proved to be very popular, particularly during the recent spell of good weather, and I expect many more will use them during the summer months ahead. These new spaces provide an ideal place to enjoy a break, take a moment to eat or drink, or just enjoy a chat with friends and family.”

Ards and North Down Borough Council was awarded a total of £1.75m through the Covid-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme, allowing the Council to support a range of projects in our city, towns and villages. For more information, visit ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk.

Photo caption: The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, enjoying an ice cream at a parklet in Comber. (Image: Ian Pedlow.)