Across our communities, biodiversity is being championed through a range of hands-on, locally driven initiatives that bring people together while supporting the natural environment.
As part of our Biodiversity Action Plan we are exploring further actions and initiatives we can take, including a pipeline of future biodiversity projects. This includes the recent trial of ‘No Mow May’ at three of our sheltered housing schemes (Donal Casey Court, Millmount House and Pembroke Lodge), specific projects such as a community garden area in Finaghy, which we hope to progress in coming months, and opportunities to engage with local communities and stakeholders including local councils.
As an example of some recent initiatives, in March of this year, we hosted a successful litter-picking event at Crannog Way in Dungannon, in partnership with Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful and local students from St. Patrick’s Secondary School. This collaborative effort brought together residents, young people, and environmental advocates to improve the local area, raise awareness about environmental responsibility, and foster a sense of community pride.
As part of our Springwatch Campaign, we launched a series of engaging workshops and events focused on birdlife, bats, and natural habitats. Led by ornithologist Aidan Crean, these interactive sessions educated pupils and residents across all six of our regional areas, combining expert knowledge with hands-on experiences. This Community Development-led initiative was designed to bring together environmental education and tenant engagement, fostering a stronger connection to nature. One of the flagship events took place in the Botanic Gardens as part of the Belfast Festival of Learning, which is overseen by Belfast City Council and forms part of the UNESCO City of Learning Network.
Each event was tailored to the local environment, offering either an evening bat walk, using specialist detection technology, or a bird-ringing demonstration accompanied by an informative talk. These events aimed to inspire curiosity and deepen understanding of local wildlife, while also providing a fun and memorable experience for participants.
In Ballyclug Mews we planted 150 native trees, in collaboration with The Woodland Trust and Mid and East Antrim Council. It is hoped that these trees will provide future homes for an array of flora and fauna, from shade-loving plants and fungi to small mammals and rare insects. More recently we have also planted wildflower at the scheme and protected an existing natural solitary bee post on site.
