Residents Meeting -A clearer picture

Thank to all who turned out on Sunday afternoon. We apprecaite that you gave up an hour to us. We also thank the many residents who coud not attend directly but offered their support and availibity up their return and shold we need it.

Those present heard from Barry and Chris, unpacking the details of what has been presented in writting, emails and from conversaitons with councillors. Until now many people have been left confused and concerned with information that has been miscommunicated from council workers. Greater insight was given to the mutli-phased transition of the Killeaton Fields and the removal of community use. Evident by the field in which the meeting took place, that has had the majority of grass removed.

We established that this was not a protest against tree cutting or on going maintenace, but a clear objection to the loss of the small field, without any consideration or consultation given to those who use it. It was clear that emotions were high and rightfully so, with many residents feeling anxious, sadened and frustrated at the loss of this community ammenity. We heard many statements of how this change has already affected them and also on how this can be returned to its valuable state.

One of the aims of the day was to encourage people to visit and utilise the website and to also offer help and support as best and as much as they could. We have had many people sign up and are ready and willing to.

We also identified a huge portion of residents who do not use social media/whatsapp or even browse the web. We couldn't stress enough how social media, although very helpful, can also be a hinderence. With only a few of us trying to keep as many informed it is extremely difficult when people publicise only parts of the jigsaw, Yes-they have a right to and Yes this is seemingly a good thing to do. However if we are to engage with every responce on every platform, we would not only be online 24/7 it leaves us with limit time to respond and communicate with all residents, councillors, council workers etc.. Very quickly people disengage from social media and from the debate if they believe they have been given good infomation from known and trusted friends and neighbours. People become apathetic very quickly. What we found and heard from people is this very fact. If all your hearing is a positive enhancement story about felling planting trees, flowers and making a safe biodiverse enviroment - then who wouldn't give the thumbs up and shut out the so called "tree huggers"- but unfortunately what you do shut out is the full story.

Here is the handout that was given to all at the meeting.

From the Head of Parks and Amenities to Councillors – sent 5th August

It is our intention to shortly start work at Killeaton Open Space. This will entail 2 x phases. Phase 1 (1 Sep – late Nov) will use the smaller triangular area (shown at the bottom of the attached photo) at the junction of Mosside Road and Queensway as a pilot to show the neighbours what can be done. The works are necessary for a number of reasons:

1. The fence is rotten and had collapsed in places

2. The trees (including those suffering from Ash dieback) need attention

3. The gates are missing which means cars are driving in and onto the grassed area

4. The bins are small pole mounted versions in a poor state of repair

5. The lack of paths prohibits access by wheelchair users or those pushing prams

6. The smaller triangular site has no other useable feature

The open space lacks definition and has great potential and so we are working with several partners to enhance it by creating a number of biodiversity rich features. These include the use of natural species hedgerows and trees.

If successful and no major objections then later in the year we would move to Phase 2 which would involve the wider open space – note that at that stage we would engage with local residents as they share common boundaries. It would also be our intention to leave a useable and sizeable flat area at the bottom of the slope for casual sports.

The following is a brief synopsis of planned works:

· Tree maintenance works along Killeaton Park property boundaries (contractor appointed)

· Replacement D-Rail fencing along road perimeters

· Improved vehicle/pedestrian access: 3no vehicle gates, 3no pedestrian gates, 3no ground mounted bins, 1 at each access point.

· Hedge planting along road perimeters with standard trees planted every 12 metres. (Woodland Trust Funding)

· 20 x standard trees planted (involves Lisburn Youth Council – Mon 16 Aug)

· Wildflower meadow creation

· Seating provision

· Tree whip planting (DAERA Funding)

· Orbital gravel path installations to enable better DDA access

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Please keep looking round the website as there will be more information to come.