The park has been revitalised into a vibrant and welcoming outdoor space, where residents and visitors can relax, explore, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Key enhancements include shared-use paths for both cyclists and walkers, new and upgraded interpretation panels, improved landscaping, inviting seating and picnic spots, and outdoor learning zones designed for use by local schools, playgroups, and nursery units, encouraging educational engagement with nature.
The park features two scenic trails: a 0.5km lower trail and a 0.7km upper trail, offering options for gentle walks or slightly longer routes. Visitors can enjoy an abundance of local flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and a fantastic spot for wildlife observation.
At the official opening of Burnside River Walk and Park, the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly said;
“I would like to thank the Department for Communities, the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, and the Department for Infrastructure for their significant financial contribution towards the scheme. This project has created a more accessible, informative and enjoyable experience for all who live, work and visit Burnside. We’re especially proud of the way it blends recreational use with educational opportunities, celebrating the unique history and landscape of the area.”
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said,
“I am pleased that the range of enhancements made to Burnside River Walk and Park as part of this Environmental Improvement Scheme have now been completed. Through the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme, my department is investing in the long-term viability and prosperity of our smaller settlements, helping to create places that people want to live, work, visit and invest in.”
DAERA Minister Muir said
“I am delighted to see the completion of this project under the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Recovery Programme. The Programme saw Government Departments and Councils work together to deliver for residents and businesses in rural towns and villages. This project will certainly enhance Burnside River Walk and Park by creating a vibrant community space and in doing so deliver on my Department’s priority of building strong, sustainable and diverse rural communities.”
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said:
“I welcome the environmental improvements which have been made to Burnside Park, and I’m pleased that my Department was able to provide part funding through the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme. The enhancements made have created a great outdoor place for all to enjoy for recreation and leisure, providing health and wellbeing benefits for locals and visitors alike.”