Mayor Officially Opens Bryansburn Allotments Shed and Community Space

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, officially opened the new Bryansburn Allotment Association shed and community space during a Bryansburn Allotments clean-up week that was held in October.

Community gardens and allotments are helping to transform urban and rural landscapes across the country. They offer vital benefits for health, environmental sustainability and help bring people together.

Situated just off the Bryansburn Road in Bangor, community growers welcomed the Mayor to the Bryansburn Allotments. The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, said:

"The new shed and community space is an excellent addition for Bryansburn Allotments. Allotments and gardens create safe, therapeutic spaces for residents to unwind and connect with nature, and community growing provides both physical exercise and mental health benefits. Having this new shed and shared space will encourage connection and sharing of expertise at the allotment. It is not just about growing food but also building a healthier, more resilient community."

Tony Stevenson, Chair of Bryansburn Allotments, said:

"We are delighted as a group to have this new shared space. As a committee, we have been discussing plans to make best use of this shed and outside space. With increasing demand for these spaces, our intention is to involve the wider community in future activities."

The Council's Let's Grow Together Strategy (2021-2032) highlights the growing demand for these spaces and their significant social and ecological impact. It aims to empower communities by improving access to land for food growing and emphasises the importance of local food production in strengthening economic resilience and community wellbeing.

With increasing demand for these spaces, Ards and North Down Borough Council is committed to ensuring that all residents have access to the benefits of community growing.