Expression of Interest open for Cross Community Garden Improvement Scheme

by Gráinne Connolly

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has opened an Expressions of Interest from community garden and allotment groups who wish to take part in the PEACE IV Cross Community Garden Improvement Scheme - 'Growing Communities'. 

The aim of the programme is to improve cross-community relations and community cohesion, by supporting activities that develop and promote these shared green spaces. 

Up to ten community gardens and allotments across the district area will benefit from small-scale capital investments of up to £2000 as part of the programme. 

Groups will also receive gardening equipment, gardening skills training and best practice visits as part of the initiative. 

The Growing Communities Programme, which will be delivered by the Council's Parks and Open Spaces service, is one of 15 projects included within the PEACE IV Local Action Plan for Fermanagh and Omagh.
 

The council has arranged information sessions for any group interested in learning more about the project and the application process. 

These will take place in: 

Omagh Leisure Complex - 22nd November, 7pm

Fermanagh House, Enniskillen - 23rd November, 7pm

In announcing the call for Expressions of Interest for the Growing Communities Programme, the Chairman of the PEACE IV Partnership, Councillor Sean Clarke said: 

"Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is confident that this programme will have a lasting and positive impact for participating communities. 

"These spaces play a big role connecting people across communities, whilst also offering a wealth of health and recreational benefits, and improving the aesthetic appearance of the local area."

Through capital and equipment investment, training and best practice sharing, this programme hopes to enable the successful groups to enhance their respective space and make it more open and inclusive to the wider community. 

It focuses on building constructive relationships, with the added benefit of positively impacting the social, environmental and health needs of the community. 

The call for Expressions of Interest is open until 12.00 noon on Monday, 11th December. 

Forms to apply can be downloaded on the council website: www.fermanaghomagh.com