Belfast is set to benefit from more than £850,000 in funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for a new project focused on connecting people with nature across the city.
Led by Belfast City Council in partnership with Ulster Wildlife, the ‘Breaking Through Barriers to Connect People and Nature’ project is one of just 19 selected across the UK through the Nature Towns and Cities programme.
The funding follows a highly competitive process, with Belfast one of only 37 shortlisted and one of three projects in Northern Ireland to receive support.
Over the next three years, the initiative will explore ways to bring nature into everyday spaces across the city, from greening streets and alleyways to creating pocket parks, planting wildflowers and improving existing green spaces.
Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Paul Doherty, said the investment will help make Belfast “greener, healthier and more resilient”, while also addressing unequal access to nature across communities.
The project will also include mapping and research to better understand gaps in access to green space and guide future investment.
A dedicated Engagement Officer will work with residents and community groups to identify barriers, develop ideas and support local action.
Ulster Wildlife CEO Dawn Miskelly said community involvement will be key, adding that long term nature recovery depends on people feeling empowered to shape their local environment.
The wider Nature Towns and Cities programme aims to connect millions more people across the UK with nature close to home, particularly in urban areas where access has traditionally been limited.
Residents and community groups interested in taking part can find more information via Belfast City Council.
