Over 600 young saplings were planted which will contribute towards Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s One Million Tree Programme.
Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Julie Gilmour, expressed her support for the tree planting, saying,
“Cleaner air, reduced carbon emissions and richer biodiversity are just some of the many reasons we’re planting new trees at Hazelbank Park. The collaboration between the Council, TCV and NIE Networks reflects our shared pride in protecting local ecosystems. I’m delighted that initiatives like this are helping us move toward a greener, more sustainable future.”
Judy McElroy, Head of Sustainability & Environment from NIE Networks commented:
“We greatly appreciate the support of our partners, including TCV and Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council. Today’s planting is one of many sessions planned this season, as part of our commitment to improving environmental outcomes. Each year we identify new sites for native tree planting, and we look forward to continuing this work with organisations across Northern Ireland.”
Robert Shearman, from The Conservation Volunteers, added:
“We were delighted to collaborate with the Council and NIE Networks to enhance Hazelbank Park’s landscape and biodiversity. Establishing this new woodland will benefit people and nature now and for generations.”
Funding by Northern Ireland Electricity Networks is enabling The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) to offer free trees, advice and planting support to schools and communities across Northern Ireland, apply now via www.tcv.org.uk/i-dig-trees-free-trees/
The Council is calling on community groups, local organisations, and businesses across the Borough to help make a meaningful difference by planting more trees. Please register your planted trees at www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/plantatree
