Ards and North Down Borough Council has announced major enhancements to Ward Park in Bangor. These improvements include the construction of a modern play park near the tennis courts and the car park, as well as a new Dementia Friendly Sensory Garden beside the local library.
Supported by government funding and aligned with the Council’s focus on community wellbeing, both projects are set for completion by the end of March. The Council believes these initiatives will offer more inclusive and engaging experiences for all visitors.
Major Upgrades Underway
According to the Council, £231,000 has been secured from the Secretary of State for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund for these developments. Additional funding comes from the Council’s existing Play Park Refurbishment budget. Work on the play park has already started, featuring modern equipment and a spacious layout.
Minister for Local Growth and Building Safety, Alex Norris, remarked: “It is fantastic to see work get underway on the new play park and Dementia Friendly Sensory Garden in Bangor, backed by £231,000 of government funding. This is an exciting moment for local residents as transformative changes begin.”
Dementia Friendly Sensory Garden
The Council is also transforming the space outside the library (formerly the old play park) into a Dementia Friendly Sensory Garden, specifically designed with guidance from organisations such as Dementia NI, Alzheimer’s Society and others. This project aims to offer a calming and accessible area for individuals living with dementia and their carers. It is fully grant-funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is included in a wider initiative comprising eight projects focused on creating positive outcomes for communities.
Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, highlighted the park’s legacy: “Ward Park holds a very special place in the hearts of many. The Council is committed to preserving and protecting this unique Edwardian Park while making the necessary improvements to ensure it is as sustainable and biodiverse as possible.”
Long-Term Environmental Improvements
Later this year, the Council plans to begin a £5.5 million Environmental Improvement Scheme that will address paths, bridges, lighting, pond walls and animal enclosures. Desilting of the ponds is already complete, with the remaining works due to commence in Autumn after the Summer 2025 events programme. These efforts aim to maintain the park’s historical character while enhancing visitor amenities.
Community Collaboration
Peter Bailey, Chairman of Ward Park Residents Association, expressed support for the new developments: “It is great to see work start on these additional improvements to our much-loved Park. A larger play park will be a great asset to the many families who live in the area and the new Dementia Friendly Sensory Garden will be a wonderful addition for those affected by the condition.”
Residents have been kept informed through regular council updates and public information sessions, ensuring community voices play a central role in shaping future progress at Ward Park.
Looking Ahead
These new facilities, due for completion by the end of March, underscore the Council’s commitment to making Ward Park an inclusive and vibrant space. Anyone interested in learning more about the ongoing improvements or ways to get involved is encouraged to visit the Council’s website at
www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/wardpark.