dunadry hamlet plan 2 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
Acknowledgements
Dunadry Community Association would like to thank all those who have contributed to the preparation of this Hamlet Plan, including:
• The Dunadry Hotel & Country Club for the use of their facilities for initial meetings with DCA and the public meeting.
• All local residents, Church representatives, and business owners, Elected members and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) who participated in the consultation process.
• We particularly wish to thank all those who permitted the use of their photographs in the Hamlet Plan and John Kerr and Stephen Montgomery who provided several photographs of the hamlet.
• Antrim Borough Council (ABC) for providing support to the Hamlet Plan preparation process.
• VMS Consults Ltd (VMS) for chairing and facilitating the consultation process and ensuring that everyone was given an opportunity to have their say on issues affecting them.
• All the members of Dunadry Community Association (DCA) for helping to organise the public meeting, arranging the venue and publicising the event. DCA has also acted as a key source of local information. DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 3
Abbreviations and Glossary
ABC - Antrim Borough Council Local government authority for Antrim Borough
DCA - Dunadry Community Association Community group in Dunadry that represent interests of residents on issues that may impact on the local community
DOE - Department of the Environment Government department with responsibility for planning, the natural and built environment and road safety and regulation of drivers, vehicles and vehicle operators
DRD - Department for Regional Development Government department with responsibility for regional strategic planning and development, transport strategy and sustainable transport, public roads, public transport, air and sea ports, and water and sewerage services
GROW South Antrim (Generating Rural Opportunities Within South Antrim) Body responsible for delivering funding from the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme
MLA(s) - Member(s) of the Legislative Assembly Representative elected by the voters of a constituency to the Northern Ireland Legislative Assembly
PCSP - Policing and Community Safety Partnership Partnership group comprising councillors and representatives of the local community responsible for consulting and engaging with the local community on issues of concern in relation to policing and community safety with the aim of preventing crime and enhancing community safety
PSNI - Police Service of Northern Ireland
RDP - Rural Development Programme Programme established to help protect and enhance the rural environment and contribute to the development of competitive rural businesses, and thriving rural communities
SACT - South Antrim Community Transport Organisation which provides accessible and affordable transport to individuals and groups in rural areas, particularly people with reduced mobility
VMS - VMS Consults Ltd Consultants appointed to chair and facilitate the consultation process 4 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
Foreword
The purpose of this Hamlet Plan is to improve the wellbeing of the people of Dunadry – those living and working there; this objective is best addressed by considering various factors which impact on this wellbeing – factors such as;
• Environment • Transport • Safety • Communication • Loneliness • Anti-social Behaviour
This we have done and the actions we propose will, we trust, help improve the lives of all those associated with our Hamlet.
Alex W Graham - Chair, Dunadry Community Association DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 5
Contents
1. A Hamlet Plan for Dunadry 6
2. What we found out 7
3. What we would like to do in Dunadry 20
4. Our Action Plan 26
5. How we will make it happen 28 6 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
1. A Hamlet Plan for Dunadry
1.1 About our Hamlet Dunadry is a hamlet located halfway between Antrim and Templepatrick approximately 6 miles from Belfast International Airport. To those unfamiliar with the area, Dunadry may appear to only consist of the Dunadry Hotel, Ellie May’s public house and restaurant, and properties along the A6 Belfast Road. However, off the main route there is a network of small rural roads lined with residential properties and quite extensive housing developments. In addition, Muckamore Presbyterian Church and the former Lawther National School are located on Dunadry Road.
Dunadry was once associated with the paper and linen industry as access to the Six Mile Water River allowed textile mills to take advantage of the natural energy supply. The character of the hamlet has evolved over time with the decline of the traditional industries and the development of local agriculture. The recent property boom has also had an impact on the hamlet’s changing landscape. While the textile industry in Dunadry has declined, the buildings still remain and have evolved to accommodate the Dunadry Hotel and Summerhill residential development.
1.2 Background to our Hamlet Plan The need for a Dunadry Hamlet Plan was recognised by GROW South Antrim (Generating Rural Opportunities Within South Antrim) who acknowledged that the preparation of a realistic Hamlet Plan would give strategic direction and focus to help sustain small rural communities. Our Hamlet Plan has been prepared in consultation with all those with an interest in Dunadry with the overall aim of delivering projects on the ground. It identifies developments that the people of Dunadry would like to see particularly over the next 5 years and in the longer term.
1.3 Format of the Hamlet Plan The Hamlet Plan comprises 6 Sections as follows:
• Section 1.0: A Hamlet Plan for Dunadry describes our hamlet and provides information on why we have produced a Hamlet Plan; • Section 2.0: What we have found out summarises the views of those with an interest in Dunadry; • Section 3.0: What we would like to do in Dunadry sets out the projects that we would like to take forward in our hamlet; • Section 4.0: Our Action Plan summarises the projects and priorities; • Section 5.0: How we will make it happen outlines what we need to do to make the Hamlet Plan work for us; and • Section 6.0: Sources of Information provides information on documents referenced in the Hamlet Plan. DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 7
2. What we have found out
Consultation with the local community has been fundamental to the development of the Dunadry Hamlet Plan. It has enabled key issues to be identified by those with a stake in the sustainable development of the hamlet and also options for resolving these going forward.
Dunadry Community Association met initially to map out potential issues and local concerns leading up to a public meeting. One to one meetings were also held with representatives of Dunadry Hotel, Ellie May’s Bar and Restaurant and Muckamore Presbyterian Church.
Antrim Borough Council facilitated the consultation process by distributing a letter to approximately 330 homes in the surrounding area inviting residents to attend the public meeting. A public meeting was held on 28th January 2013 in the Dunadry Hotel and was attended by approximately 85 local residents and elected representatives.
The meeting provided a forum for discussion on a wide range of issues impacting people and helped identify high priority issues and a number of project ideas that could be developed as part of a 5 year hamlet plan. 8 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
The key issues emerging from the public consultation meeting are:
• Housing • Transport • Environment • Community • Employment, and • Leisure
Those who participated in the public meeting were asked to provide their opinion on Dunadry as a place to live. Attendees responded positively by stating that Dunadry is a “great place to live” (81%) or a “good place to live” (19%). Friendly people, pleasant rural surroundings and the proximity to Belfast and the International Airport were considered to be the main benefits of living in the hamlet.
However, despite positive attitudes to living in Dunadry, residents also expressed a range of concerns and challenges; these topics are explored in greater detail in the following sections. DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 9
2.1 Housing
During the consultation process, residents were asked to identify their main concerns in relation to housing. Figure 1 below summarises the views recorded.
Figure 1: Housing Issues
Future zoning The most significant issue that emerged from the consultative process concerned the prospect of more new housing development in the area. The majority of those consulted believe that there is no need for further substantial housing development in the area; 67% were strongly opposed to any further extension to the settlement development limit in a new area plan claiming that Dunadry should remain as a hamlet. Many are convinced that there is insufficient infrastructure to allow any further expansion of Dunadry.
Some residents were strongly opposed to a restriction on the development limit being extended. Others were reluctant to make comment either way in the absence of a map delineating the current boundary.
Derelict and vacant sites and properties During the consultation process issues were raised about the impact that derelict, unoccupied and unfinished sites have on the image of the hamlet. The Dunadry Gate site, which is surrounded by blue hoarding, was identified as particular eyesore in the hamlet. 10 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
Restricting development The over development of the rural area generally is also a major issue of concern among the local community; in particular apartment developments are regarded as not in keeping with the character of Dunadry. In this regard, many residents are concerned that the Department of the Environment (DOE) seem to disregard their own planning policies and that there is a lack of accountability for planning decisions within Planning Service.
Upkeep and maintenance Upkeep and maintenance of existing housing is not considered an issue as properties are generally well maintained. However, some properties have fallen into a state of disrepair with a number of poorly maintained sites identified. The community agree that properties should be maintained to a high standard in the interests of everyone who lives in Dunadry.
Social housing The majority of housing in the hamlet is privately owned with the exception of some private rental properties at Bleach Green. Furthermore, 10% of those who attended the public meeting raised the lack of social housing as an issue. DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 11
2.2 Traffic and Transport
Consultees were asked to identify their main concerns in relation to traffic and transport. Figure 2 below summarises the views recorded.
Figure 2: Transport issues
Roads The main issue regarding roads relates to the speed of traffic on the A6 Belfast Road through the hamlet and also on a number of the surrounding rural roads. Many residents feel that speed restrictions are generally not adhered to by motorists. Representatives from DCA met with the Department for Regional Development (DRD) Roads Service to discuss the need for further speed restrictions in Dunadry but progress on this issue has been slow.
Residents also raised concerns regarding insufficient sight lines for traffic emerging from minor roads onto the main A6 Belfast Road; this issue is expected to be exacerbated if sites with planning permission are developed. In addition, residents also raised concerns regarding the general lack of maintenance along the A6 Belfast Road and in particular the need for traffic calming at the railway bridge on Dunadry Road. Residents commented that road signage in Dunadry is poorly maintained and should be refurbished or replaced; the need for salt bins in winter was also noted. Islandreagh Road is in need of resurfacing with the proliferation of potholes potentially causing damage to vehicles. 12 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
Footpaths and pedestrian safety The lack of footpaths in Dunadry concerns residents especially due to the speed of traffic travelling along the road network. It was noted that an increase in the number of people walking, cycling and jogging has increased the potential risks particularly to vulnerable road users.
Public transport Concern about access to public transport was expressed during the consultation. Whilst trains pass through Dunadry there is no halt. Some residents suggested that additional stops may not be welcomed by commuters from other areas as it would delay their journey time.
While the area is covered by bus services between Belfast and Ballymena (Services 57 & 120) and Belfast and Cookstown (Service 571), it was highlighted that the frequency of these services is limited. Many residents who wish to commute drive to neighbouring areas such as Antrim or the ‘Park and Share’ facility at Templepatrick. As well as better access to public transport services, consultees would like to see local bus shelters.
Cycle paths There are no footpaths in the area and cyclists are required to share road space with vehicular traffic.
Parking It was noted that those fishing along the Six Mile Water River park at Muckamore Presbyterian Church tend to park at the Dunadry Gate site. Dunadry is also quite popular for kayak users who park at Ellie May’s. The need to provide a dedicated recreational parking area was raised but the potential risk of attracting antisocial behaviour to the car park might outweigh any potential benefit. DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 13
2.3 Environment
Consultees were asked to identify their main concerns in relation to the environment. Figure 3 below summarises the views recorded.
Figure 3: Environment issues
River management The Six Mile Water River is recognised as a significant natural asset with wildlife importance including otters, kingfishers and bat boxes. Some consultees would like to see the river bank developed to promote opportunities for tourism and recreation. It is recognised however that land ownership and rights of way may need to be established before this can be considered.
The risk of flooding is a major issue for residents with 76.3% expressing their concerns and it was noted that Dunadry Road and Ballybentragh Road flood on a regular basis. The combined storm and foul sewer system and the pumping station sewage are considered inadequate and cannot sustain any further development.
Public realm and landscaping Consultees are keen to enhance the aesthetics of Dunadry. It was suggested that seating and planters in front of the Dunadry Hotel along with hanging baskets along the A6 Dunadry Road 14 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
would create a much more attractive environment. The potential to develop a community garden at Bleach Green was suggested as a means of improving the appearance of the area.
Residents noted that Dunadry is subjected to a different and less frequent maintenance regime compared to neighbouring areas such as Templepatrick and this detracting from the image of the hamlet.
Some consultees questioned the potential preservation of trees on Dunadry Road.
Vandalism Residents noted that there is no vandalism or graffiti in Dunadry however there is a need for additional dog fouling bins and signage.
Heritage Consultees are keen to see Dunadry’s heritage maintained and promoted. In this regard it was suggested that bridges should be re-pointed and under-lit. In addition, residents requested that existing stone walls be preserved, repaired and maintained and, where possible, old style stone pillars be introduced at the entry to fields. Consultees were keen to explore funding opportunities and how it could support an environmental heritage project in Dunadry.
Atmosphere and image Dunadry is generally considered to be quite clean, tidy and well maintained. More regular maintenance and additional planting will further protect and enhance the aesthetics of the area.
DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 15
2.4 Community Development
During the consultation process, residents were asked to identify their main concerns in relation to community development. Figure 4 below summarises the views recorded.
Figure 4: Community concerns
Being kept informed The key area of concern in relation to community development is in relation to being kept informed and having an awareness of what is happening in the area (69.5%). It is noted that with no central core to Dunadry or even local shop, there is no focal point where residents can interact.
The Community Association is an active community group with a number of regular attendees. There is however a sense of apathy among many residents who seem content to let the Committee take local issues forward.
Policing It is suggested that there is a good relationship between Dunadry Community Association and the PSNI with an officer frequently attending Community Association meetings. The turnover of PSNI personnel is however a concern for local residents and business owners. 16 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
Community spirit Many residents agreed that there is a lack of community spirit in the hamlet and the lack of a natural focal point in Dunadry is considered a contributing factor. Many new people who have moved into the village seem to be commuters and opportunities to engage with new-comers are limited.
Crime Residents noted that there had been a recent spate of car thefts and rural crime, with home heating oil increasingly targeted.
Community relations Community relations are considered to be relatively good in Dunadry.
Anti-social behaviour Anti-social behaviour is not considered to be a significant issue for residents.
Telecommunications Residents feel that the quality of telecommunications is quite poor throughout the Dunadry area with unreliable mobile phone signals, Freeview services and internet connectivity. DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 17
2.5 Employment
Dunadry has a limited number of businesses. The local hotel and the local bar/restaurant are seen as vital due to the sense of life, activity and employment they bring to the area. Figure 5 below summarises the views recorded.
Figure 5: Employment concerns
Survival of local businesses 55.6% who attended the public meeting considered the economic success of existing businesses as critical to the future of the area. The hotel and the bar/restaurant are recognised as important local economic drivers with the employment they generate. Businesses are concerned however that high commercial rates are not conducive to business growth and creating new jobs.
Access to shops and services There are no shops in Dunadry therefore residents have to travel to Antrim, Islandbawn, Templepatrick, or Parkgate.
Access to training opportunities Access to training opportunities is an issue for 7% of those who attended the public meeting.
Unemployment Only 4% of those at the public meeting consider unemployment to be an issue in Dunadry.
18 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
2.6 Leisure
Consultees were asked to identify their main concerns in relation to leisure. Figure 6below summarises the views recorded.
Figure 6: Leisure and recreation issues
Promotion and development of local attractions The key issue for residents with regards to leisure and recreation is the promotion of the current natural and built attractions in Dunadry; these include the surrounding countryside, the river, the hotel and bar/restaurant. Residents feel that the development of a local product that focuses on the rich heritage of the area could attract more visitors who would subsequently use local businesses.
Access to activities It was noted that there are relatively few activities within Dunadry for young people or the elderly; the lack of suitable venues is considered a contributing factor. It was noted however that young and elderly residents tend to avail of activities in other areas which further strengthens the case for improved public transport.
It is suggested that existing and new events should be promoted more widely through newsletters, posters, and through social media so that local people are informed and could be encouraged to interact with each other. DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 19
Access to facilities Despite limited facilities for community activity, the contribution of the existing venues was recognised. The Dunadry hotel provides free venue hire and hospitality to several charitable organisations and DCA meetings throughout the year. In addition, the church hall is regularly used for youth club, Boy’s Brigade and senior citizens activities. 20 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
3. What we would like to do in Dunadry
H1: Promote greater involvement in the Development Plan process Local Councils will assume a planning function under the Reform of Local Government. Responsibilities will include Community Planning whereby greater emphasis will be placed on involving local communities in the future development of their area. Should the opportunity arise, the Community Association is committed to help shape the future of Dunadry through any Community Planning process that may emerge. It will be important that participation is inclusive and reflects the views of the entire community.
A key aspect of a new Area Plan for Antrim will be retaining Dunadry’s hamlet classification and the promotion of Dunadry as a Conservation Area.
H2: Liaise with land and property owners regarding maintenance of derelict/vacant sites The ownership of vacant sites in the hamlet needs to be determined and the owners approached to better maintain the appearance of their property. It is recommended that owners be encouraged to undertake modest improvements until more permanent measures can be put in place; this may include cutting back grass verges, painting the surrounding hoarding or applying ‘virtual graphic’ displays to the hoarding. The painting or virtual graphics could be used to depict key natural or built heritage features such as the Six Mile Water River or the industrial history.
If derelict buildings pose an environmental health or safety risk, Antrim Borough Council should be informed to take whatever action is necessary to protect the public.
H3: Lobby elected representatives and relevant Ministers to seek changes to the existing planning system and seek improvements to infrastructure It is recommended that the Community Association lobby elected representatives and relevant Ministers to seek appropriate contributions from developers in future to ensure that local infrastructure, particularly roads and sewerage, is upgraded to meet demand.
H4: Continue to monitor future development of the hamlet Although residents cannot prevent any further housing development taking place in Dunadry, they can submit representations to planning applications for development proposals. The current Community Association has an established sub-group to deal with planning matters and which is responsible for keeping a watching brief on proposed developments in the area.
Dunadry Community Association has a Planning Sub-Group which is elected annually at the Association’s AGM; the AGM is open to all residents of Dunadry. The Planning Sub-Group provides a full report to the AGM of the planning applications it has reviewed and any actions it may have taken or intends to take on behalf of the Association. DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 21
T1: Liaise with DRD Roads Service on traffic survey It is recommended that a traffic survey is carried out in Dunadry to help identify the extent of the speeding problem. The traffic survey will also help identify where the greatest speeds are experienced and the time of the day, evening or night when the problem is greatest. While local people may have their own views, a properly conducted traffic survey from a suitable qualified road engineer will help ensure that the issue is a priority for DRD Roads Service and the PSNI.
T2: Liaise with DRD Roads Service, PSNI, Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), Roads Safety Council/Committee on speed monitoring and enforcement measures Table 1 below provides a record of collisions and injuries in the Aldergrove and Templepatrick wards from 2004 to 2011. The statistics highlight that there have been 261 collisions between 2004-2011 resulting in 8 fatalities and 438 injuries. The figures below could help provide a case for greater speed monitoring and enforcement in Dunadry. It is recommended that the Community Association liaise with the DRD Roads Service, PSNI, PCSP, DOE and with local elected representatives to determine if there are particular accident “black spots” that require mobile safety cameras or other traffic calming measures to address the problem of speeding.
Ward Fatal collision Serious collision Slight collision Collisions Aldergrove 4 18 119 141 Templepatrick 4 23 93 120 Total 8 41 212 261
Ward Killed Seriously injured Slightly injured Casualties Aldergrove 4 20 206 230 Templepatrick 4 31 181 216 Total 8 51 387 446
Reported Injury Road Traffic Collisions and Casualties for Aldergrove and Templepatrick Wards 2004 – 2011 (NISRA, 2011 ) Table 1: Accident statistics
T3: Explore potential traffic calming measures There are a number of traffic calming measures that could be implemented varying from physical/ engineering measures such as speed humps and narrowing to more subtle visual measures such as signage or changing the appearance of a road which can positively influence driver behaviour. It is recommended that the Community Association continue to liaise with DRD Roads Service to explore effective calming measures or a combination of measures that could be introduced in Dunadry.
1Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (2011) Reported Injury Road Traffic Collisions and Casualties (administrative geographies) [Online] Available at: http://www.ninis2.nisra.gov.uk [Accessed on 17 April 2013] 22 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
T4: Liaise with DRD Roads Service on effectiveness of existing engineering measures and the need for further traffic management Existing road engineering measures already in place within the hamlet include gateway signage. It is recommended that the effectiveness of this measure should be evaluated by DRD Roads Service and, where possible, other forms of traffic calming methods explored. In particular, the sight lines from minor roads onto the A6 Belfast Road should be extended to allow greater visibility. Landowners should be approached if the lack of maintenance of roadside trees and hedges interferes with sight lines.
T5: Develop a road safety campaign It is recommended that a local road safety campaign be developed to address speeding in and around Dunadry. The campaign could involve education, training or awareness raising to alert drivers and other road users to the dangers when speed restrictions are ignored.
T6: Liaise with DRD Roads Service on footway and cycle path provision Whilst provision of proper footways and cycle paths on all surrounding roads may be an unrealistic expectation, the Community Association can liaise with DRD Roads Service to promote extended coverage along the A6 Belfast Road both towards Antrim and towards Templepatrick. While the design of new footways will need to consider financial and environmental constraints, it is further recommended that the footways and cycle paths should be as wide as possible to ensure that they are accessible for all, incorporating suitable street lighting so that pedestrians and cyclists can feel safe.
T7: Liaise with Translink on rationalisation of public transport services Within rural communities access to adequate public services is a right. It is therefore recommended that a survey is carried out within Dunadry to identify the current level of public transport use and also to explore the times and frequencies of when residents require a service.
It is also suggested that proposals to divert existing bus services travelling to and from the Belfast International Airport through Dunadry should be fully explored. The potential for a train halt at Dunadry could also be considered.
T8: Liaise with DRD Roads Service, Translink and Clear Channel on shelter provision It is recommended that the Community Association liaise with Clear Channel regarding bus shelter provision on the A6 Belfast Road.
T9: Provide information on accessible transport options Translink provide senior citizens aged 60 and over with a “60+ SmartPass” which provides free bus and rail transport throughout Northern Ireland. In addition, the “Senior SmartPass” provides those aged 65 and over with free bus and rail transport throughout Northern Ireland and free cross border travel. DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 23
For those unable to access public transport, South Antrim Community Transport (SACT) provides accessible door-to-door and group travel services to community groups, older people and people with disabilities on a non-profit making basis to all rural areas. Within the Dunadry area, SACT operates a “Dial a Lift” and Social Car schemes providing door to door travel, either in minibuses or by car with vetted volunteers. Minibuses are also available for hire. Information on how to obtain a “Senior SmartPass” and other forms of community transport should be promoted locally perhaps through a public information session in Dunadry.
E1: Carry out feasibility study for development of Six Mile Water River The development potential of the river bank for recreation and tourism purposes could be explored by the community. As part of a feasibility study, land ownership and any rights of way may need to be established.
E2: Lobby DOE, NIEA and DRD regarding flooding of the Six Mile Water River It is recommended that the Community Association lobby DOE, NIEA and DRD to address regular flooding of the Six Mile Water River and the surrounding road network. It is suggested that the sewerage network is a contributing factor which urgently requires upgrading, especially if sites with outstanding planning permission are to be developed.
E3: Landscaping and environmental improvement scheme It is recommended that an environmental improvement scheme is developed throughout Dunadry. Improvements may include developing communal open space areas with public seating, landscaping, a community notice board, bins, an interpretive panel, public art feature, bus shelters and salt bins.
E4: Develop environmental subgroup It is recommended that a sub-group is developed to pursue environmental projects in Dunadry; this may involve organising a litter pick, notifying Antrim Borough Council or DRD Roads Service when maintenance is required and assisting with the planting and upkeep of flower beds.
E5: Report dog fouling incidents to Antrim Borough Council It is illegal for anyone in charge of a dog not to clean up after their pet. The penalty includes an on-the-spot fine of £50 for failing to clean up dog litter. The owner (or person in charge of the dog) is given the choice of paying it or going to court. If taken to court and found to be guilty of the offence, the owner could then be subject to a maximum penalty of £500 plus court costs. 24 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
If a resident wishes to report a specific offence or provide details of the person(s) involved, they are advised to contact Antrim Borough Council’s Environmental Health Department (028 9446 3113).
Additional dog fouling signage could also be provided by Antrim Borough Council and, if necessary, a leaflet drop to all houses in the Dunadry area advising of the obligation in relation to cleaning up dog litter.
E6: Promote local heritage The history of the hamlet could be explored and discussed with a local historian. In addition, an interpretation panel with local heritage could be erected in a suitable location.
E7: Renovate the bridges/stone walling Existing stone walls and bridges in the area could be repointed, repaired and preserved. In addition, the arches of key bridges in the area could be under-lit to enhance the existing features of the area.
C1: Develop electronic social networks Community notice boards are often an effective tool for communicating with residents if located in an accessible area. With no communal area in Dunadry, it is recommended that electronic social networks are used in an effort to communicate with residents and to engage young people’ this could include developing a ‘Facebook’ page or setting up a ‘Twitter’ account to inform people about what is going on in the area. These mediums have the potential to be useful tools so that they are used not only as the main point of information but also to celebrate the successes and achievements for the community. It is important that information is kept up to date and evolves as new social networking sites emerge. A newsletter may also be effective in providing information to the local community and those with limited computer literacy.
C2: Organise annual ccommunity event The consultation process highlighted the lack of opportunities to bring members of the community together, especially long term residents and people who have just moved to the area.
It is suggested that the Community Association develop an annual community event with a range of activities in order to attract a wide range of ages and interests. As the event develops, more individuals could be encouraged to volunteer and play their part.
C3: Develop Neighbourhood Watch A neighbourhood watch scheme could be developed within the village to deter rural crime. DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 25
C4: Liaise with Telecommunication providers to upgrade existing networks It is recommended that the Community Association lobby elected representatives to seek improvements to the telecommunications network particular mobile phone signal, Freeview services and Internet connectivity speeds.
EM1: Promote and support local businesses During the public meeting, the important contribution of local businesses to the economy of the area was recognised. Every effort should be made to maintain existing services in Dunadry and, where possible, promote new economic opportunities. While the population of Dunadry can help sustain the current provision, businesses should be supported and encouraged to remain competitive and to seek opportunities to improve their offer and range of services.
Social networks could help support local businesses by providing information to the community on upcoming events.
L1: Promote natural assets of the hamlet The Six Mile Water River runs through Dunadry and is recognised as an underutilised natural asset by residents. It is recommended that the Community Association liaise with landowners, Antrim Borough Council and Rivers Agency to discuss how the river could be developed and its use promoted.
L2: Develop and promote access to activities for young people It is reported that there is little for young people to do in the area. It is recommended that information on events in the surrounding area is made more accessible to young people living in Dunadry. A member of the group could be appointed to research a range of activities and their costs. The appointed representative could also be responsible for organising group transport if there is a large interest in a particular event. In this regard, it is recommended that the services offered by SACT should be explored further and, if possible, used more regularly by young people to access activities in the surrounding areas.
L3: Promote and develop activities for elderly It is recommended that a club for older residents, many of whom live alone or are in an isolated part of the rural community, should be developed in Dunadry. The club could provide opportunities to interact with others; to be entertained and informed about interesting events, shows, activities or hobbies; to get out and about; and to provide transport to venues. Activities offered by the club could cater for a wide range of interests, mobility and ability. 26 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
4. Our Action Plan Potential Potential Funders* N/A Grants Safety N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A DOE Roads N/A N/A N/A N/A Stakeholders DCA, Elected MLAs Members, Roads Council/Committee Safety Elected members Clear Channel, DCA, Landowners DCA, ABC, Elected MLAs Members, DCA DCA, DRD Roads Service DCA, DRD Roads Service, PSNI, PCSP, DCA, DRD Roads Service DCA, DRD Roads Service DCA, DRD Roads Service, PSNI DOE, DRD Roads ServiceDCA, land owners, Translink DCA, Translink, DCA, DRD Roads Service, DCA, SACT Priority High Medium Medium High Medium High High High High Medium Medium Low Low Liaise with land and property regarding owners Promote and encourage greater involvement in the involvement greater and encourage Promote sustainable the future monitor to Continue Liaise with DRD Roads Service survey on traffic Liaise with DRD Roads Service, PSNI, Policing calming measures traffic potential Explore Liaise with DRD Roads Service of on effectiveness campaign safety a road Develop Liaise with DRD Roads Service and cycle on footway of public on rationalisation Translink Liaise with and Clear Translink Liaise with DRD Roads Service, transport on accessible options information Provide Action H1: process Plan Development H2: sites of derelict/vacant maintenance Ministers and relevant elected representatives H3: Lobby and seek planning system the existing seek changes to to infrastructure to improvements H4: of the hamlet development T1: T2: (PCSP), Roads Partnership Safety Safety and Community and on speed monitoring Council/Committee measures enforcement T3: T4: further and the need for measures engineering existing management traffic T5: T6: provision path T7: transport services T8: provision Channel on shelter T9: DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN 27 Potential Potential Funders* All Enkalon Foundation, Garden Ulster Limited Villages Mitchell Trust Mitchell Trust Awards for Awards N/A All, for Awards N/A Esme HLF, N/A Esme HLF, N/A N/A N/A N/A All for Awards All for Awards All for Awards ABC Stakeholders Rivers Agency Council DCA, Land owners, Antrim Borough Borough Antrim DCA, Land owners, DCA, NIEA, DRD DOE, DCA, ABC DCA, ABC DCA, DRD Roads Service DCA, ABC DCA, ABC DCA, businesses DCA, NIEA DCA DCA DCA DCA, PCSP DCA DCA, ABC Priority Medium High Medium Medium High Medium Medium Medium High Medium Medium High Medium Low Medium Promote and support local businesses Promote annual community event Organise subgroup environmental Develop local heritage Promote Develop electronic social networks Develop Watch Neighbourhood Develop upgrade to providers Telecommunication Liaise with Carry development consider study to out feasibility flooding of the NIEA and DRD regarding DOE, Lobby scheme improvement Landscaping and environmental Council Report Borough Antrim to incidents dog fouling walling the bridges/stone Renovate Promote natural assets of the hamlet natural Promote people activitiesyoung to for access and promote Develop activitieselderly and develop for Promote Action E1: River Water the Six Mile options for E2: River Water Six Mile E3: E4: E5: E6: E7: C1: C2: C3: C4: networks existing EM1: L1: L2: L3: emerge of funding may sources as other potential of funding is not exhaustive sources potential The * DOE: Department Fund ABC: AntrimCouncil Heritage Lottery Borough HLF: of the Environment 28 DUNADRY HAMLET PLAN
5. How we will make it happen
The preparation of the Dunadry Plan has been a very valuable experience for all concerned. Our Plan reflects the views and aspirations of our community and local business owners and we are committed to taking it forward.
Following the public meeting, many residents expressed an interest in being involved in developing a Hamlet Plan for Dunadry. There is a desire to use the momentum from the consultation process to drive the plan forward and achieve as one community a better Dunadry for future generations.
Following the public meeting, many residents expressed an interest in being part of the process to develop a Hamlet Plan for Dunadry. It is therefore vital that we harness this enthusiasm and commitment to energise the implementation of our Plan.
A number of the actions within the Plan could commence relatively quickly as they are not dependant on funding. For those projects that do require funding it is important that early contact is made with the relevant funders given the time that needs to be spent on preparing applications and associated studies. Most of the actions however will require the Community Association continuing to engage with Antrim Borough Council and with the statutory agencies.
Dunadry Community Association is open to all residents of Dunadry. The Association will seek, within the best of its ability and with public support, to implement the actions identified within this plan.
DUNADRY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION - MAY 2013
A full copy of this plan can be downloaded from www.antrim.gov.uk