BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 1 CONTENTS

1 Introduction to Ballygowan Village Plan Page 5 2 The Village of Ballygowan Page 6 3 Ballygowan Village Plan – Consultation Process Page 11 4 Analysis and Findings Page 14 5 Vision and Overarching Outcomes Page 16 6 Detail of Village Projects Page 18 7 Delivery of Ballygowan Village Action Plan Page 28 8 Appendices Page 34 Appendix A – Community Survey Results Appendix B – Tracking and Monitoring Template

2 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 3 1 Introduction to Ballygowan Village Plan

1.1 BACKGROUND TO VILLAGE PLANNING Ballygowan and District Community Association, in partnership with key stakeholders, has progressed As part of the Rural Development Programme a range of actions from the 2013 plan. A defibrillator 2014–2020, Ards and North Down Borough Council has been installed at the Costcutter store and local provided support to help villages within the Council teachers and voluntary group leaders trained in its use. area revise and update their village plans. These plans identify the specific needs of each village and set out Picnic tables, planters and park benches have been a range of agreed actions to be delivered over the next installed at the park on Belfast Road whilst picnic five years that will help improve the village. tables have also been installed at Comber Road park. Flowerbeds have been planted in the village hall grounds. The village plan is a working document that has been developed through a process of engagement The Community Association has organised an annual with the local community. The plan sets out the key village clean-up day, and helped establish an adult choir issues, concerns and priorities, consultee's wish to and walking group. Local people can participate in an oil see addressed in order to improve the quality of life buying scheme which is facilitated by Bryson House. within the local area. The local community has also faced challenges The village plan sets out a clear vision for Ballygowan in progressing actions which require the support detailing the actions needed to build on the unique of statutory agencies. This includes the development strengths and distinctive qualities whilst also seeking of a local community health hub, road safety, parking, to address any additional issues accordingly. traffic management and improvement of facilities at the village hall. 1.2 A (REVISED) VILLAGE PLAN FOR BALLYGOWAN 1.3 METHODOLOGY – OVERVIEW A village plan for Ballygowan was first produced The village plan for Ballygowan sets out a vision through consultation with the local community for how the local area can continue to improve and in September 2013. Progressing the actions contained sustainably develop. Through in-depth community within the plan has remained a focus for Ballygowan engagement a range of key actions and improvements and District Community Association ever since. has been identified to improve the overall physical, economic and social aspects of Ballygowan and help Therefore, it is important to recognise that this address local needs. new village plan (2018–2023) represents a continuing development of the initial plan and the ongoing efforts Agreeing priorities and developing a plan also provides of the local community to help achieve the agreed opportunities for funding by providing a central point actions. As five years have passed since the initial plan of reference for future investment throughout the area, was produced it is important to now review, revise and whether this is through the public sector, private sector update the village plan to ensure the actions remain or community and voluntary sector. relevant and consider any emerging issues or concerns. Whilst the plan includes a range of actions, which assign priorities and timescales to the improvement projects, 1.2.1 KEY ACHIEVEMENTS FROM THE 2013 this document should not be treated as a final blueprint BALLYGOWAN VILLAGE PLAN for development. Instead it should be viewed as a series of priorities and actions that will deliver significant Ballygowan and District Community Association benefits for the area. Each action will be required to took the lead when producing the 2013 Ballygowan be developed to a greater level of detail, including Village Plan. The plan was produced after extensive any further needs assessment, consultation with consultation with the local community and included 34 stakeholders, consideration of any deliverability issues actions across a range of issues covering community as well as outcomes and indicators of success. facilities and services, village infrastructure, heritage and tourism, enterprise and the local environment.

4 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 5 2 The Village of Ballygowan angr • On Census Day (27 March 2011) the population of Ballygowan was 2,942,

nagadee living in 1,070 households, giving an average household size of 2.7 • The 2001 Census reported Ballygowan as having 2,671 residents, meaning 2.1 VILLAGE LOCATION the population increased by 271, which is 10%, over 10 years POPULATION Ballygowan is a rural village located 13 miles south of Bangor and mid-way between Comber • 22% of the population are aged 0–15 and Saintfield. Less than 10 miles from Belfast, Ballygowan is a busy commuting bypass. The village arrdre • 18% of the population are aged 16–29 is located on the (A23) from Belfast and (A21) • 21% of the population are aged 30–44 between Newtownards and Ballynahinch. er • 28% of the population are aged 45–64 2.2 HISTORY OF BALLYGOWAN • 11% of the population are aged 65+

The area around Ballygowan was sporadically populated AGE PROFILE • The average age is 38 years old by members of the great ‘Neill clan of Castlereagh’ until Ballygowan the early 1600s when residents of the Scottish Lowlands came to form Ulster-Scots settlements on land given by • 49.5% of residents are male King James I to James Hamilton and Hugh Montgomery. Prtagie • 50.5% of residents are female There was a decline in the number of inhabitants GENDER around the village during the mid-19th to early 20th century as residents emigrated to North America or moved to neighbouring areas such as Comber, • Of the residents living in Ballygowan 8.4% belong to or were brought up in Saintfield and Belfast to find work. Ballygowan the Catholic religion Within the village there are playparks on Belfast village grew during the period prior to the introduction Road and Comber Road. The village hall has • 82.6% belong to or were brought up in a 'Protestant and Other Christian' religion of the Belfast and County Down Railway in 1850. RELIGION an adjoining playpark and green space and there The railway station operated for 92 years before Prtaerr are playing pitches located along the Moss Road. finally closing in 1958. • 15.1% of people have a long-term health problem or disability that limited Two schools service Ballygowan: Alexander Dickson, their day-to-day activities Ballygowan is known for the Olivet home. This imposing in the centre of the village and Carrickmannon, building has dominated the village since 1886 and located just outside Ballygowan. • 84.8% of people stated their general health was either good or very good; and is the village's main feature. The building was originally Ballygowan has an active Residents Association which • 13.8% of people stated that they provided unpaid care to family, friends, neighbours or others erected as an orphanage by Alexander Orr Reid and HEALTH works to improve the village and supports the active was purchased by Ballygowan Presbyterian Church participation of the local community. The Association in 1918. Until the 1980s, when the new Alexander maintains a website (http://www.ballygowan.org.uk/) Dickson School was built, it was used as the village • 23.1% of people had a degree or higher qualification which provides information on things to do in and primary school. Since then it has been used exclusively around the village, information about local businesses • 33.9% of people had no or low-level qualifications as a church hall. as well as being a reference guide to residents on EDUCATION topical issues such as health and wellbeing. 2.3 COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE AND • 75.1% of people were economically active and 24.9% were economically inactive SERVICES 2.4 COMMUNITY PROFILE • 68.4% of people were in paid employment Ballygowan residents have access to a number LABOUR Ballygowan village is a rural settlement captured within • 3.4% of people were unemployed of amenities in the area including a pharmacy, the Ballygowan1 and Ballygowan2 super output areas MARKET hardware store, fish and chip shop and coffee shop. (SOAs)1. Information relating to the community profile • 86.6% of homes were owner occupied (32.3% owned outright) and 11.3% were rented Most of the village’s commercial activity is centred for Ballygowan has been sourced from the Northern around the Square and Belfast Road. Translink Ireland Statistics and Research Agency2 through • 7.3% of homes were comprised of a single person aged 65+ years operates its bus depot from the Saintfield Road. the Northern Ireland Neighbourhood Information • 6.6% were lone parent households There are a number of churches within the village Service (NINIS). The NINIS3 website provides access including Ballygowan Presbyterian Church on Church to statistical and locational information about small HOUSEHOLDS • 7.9% of households did not have access to a car or van Hill and Ballygowan Free Presbyterian on Belfast Road, areas across Northern Ireland. It contains datasets each of which has its own youth group. Ballygowan Free on a range of socio-economic themes at small-area • In 2016/17, 98 pupils were enrolled in Alexander Dixon Primary School Presbyterian Church has recently employed a dedicated statistical geographies. These area profiles can be used to provide a statistical snapshot of a local area youth worker and new groups have started since SCHOOL • 8.6% of the children were entitled to free school September 2018. such as Ballygowan, as shown overleaf. NUMBERS

• Ballygowan has a total of 25 retail and business units of which 21 are currently occupied • The current vacancy rate is 16% 1 Northern Ireland is divided into 890 super output areas which are relatively small scale areas containing on average just over 2000 people. SOAs ECONOMIC are the core reporting geography of the NI Multiple Deprivation Measure (2010) ACTIVITY 2 Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (www.nisra.gov.uk) 3 NINIS (https://www.ninis2.nisra.gov.uk/public/Home.aspx) 4 Economically inactive persons are defined by the fact that they do not have a job and are either not actively looking for a job or are not immediately available to work (or both). Unemployment is when a person who is actively searching for employment is unable to find work.

6 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 7 2.5 LOCAL DEPRIVATION output areas in Northern Ireland are ranked with a score of 1 being the most deprived and a score ACCESS/PROXIMITY TO SERVICES An indication of the level of deprivation local areas of 890 the least deprived. experience can be identified through the Northern Ballygowan1 SOA Ballygowan2 SOA Ireland Multiple Deprivation Measure 20175. This As Ballygowan lies within the Ballygowan1 and report identifies small-area concentrations of multiple Ballygowan2 super output areas the information deprivation across Northern Ireland. All 890 super from these areas has been used to reflect the Ballygowan1 ranks 230 and Ballygowan2 ranks 290 community profile of the village, as shown below. out of 890 super output areas in Northern Ireland in relation to poor or deprived access to key services. This means Ballygowan village is in the top third of INCOME DEPRIVATION areas which have most difficulty accessing services.

Ballygowan1 SOA Ballygowan2 SOA Score Score 230 290 Ballygowan1 ranks 600 and Ballygowan2 ranks 655 out of 890 super output areas in Northern Ireland in CRIME AND DISORDER relation to income deprivation. Ballygowan1 SOA Ballygowan2 SOA This means that Ballygowan village is in the top third of areas which suffer least in terms of income deprivation. Ballygowan1 ranks 850 and Ballygowan2 ranks 637 Score Score out of 890 super output areas in Northern Ireland 600 655 in relation to crime and disorder deprivation. This means Ballygowan village is in the top third HEALTH DEPRIVATION of areas which suffer least from crime and disorder.

Ballygowan1 SOA Ballygowan2 SOA Score Score 850 637

Ballygowan1 ranks 825 and Ballygowan2 ranks 605 out of 890 super output areas in Northern Ireland in relation to health deprivation. To Summarise… This means that Ballygowan is in the top third of Ballygowan is in the top third of areas in Northern A higher proportion of people in the local area, areas least likely to suffer from health deprivation. Ireland which experience least deprivation across when compared to the Northern Ireland average, a range of measures including income, employment, are economically active, rate their health as good Score Score health and crime. Accessing key services such and live in their own home. More people in the local 825 605 as health, leisure or financial services is the one area provide unpaid care to family and friends than measure where Ballygowan experiences a higher the Northern Ireland average. However less people level of deprivation. report having a long-term health problem or disability EMPLOYMENT DEPRIVATION that limits their day-to-day activities. Ballygowan has a relatively even gender split and the Ballygowan1 SOA Ballygowan2 SOA average age for people living in the area is 38 years At a Northern Ireland level over 1 in 5 households old which is similar to the Northern Ireland average of (22.7%) do not have access to a car. On average 37 years. Population change for Ballygowan is +10% across Ballygowan 7.9% of households do not have Ballygowan1 ranks 776 and Ballygowan2 ranks 714 over 10 years which is slightly above the Northern access to a car which reflects the need for a vehicle out of 890 super output areas in Northern Ireland Ireland average of +7.5%. to access services in the local area. in relation to employment deprivation. This means Ballygowan village is in the top third of areas which suffer least from employment deprivation.

Score Score 776 714

5 https://www.nisra.gov.uk/statistics/deprivation/northern-ireland-multiple-deprivation-measure-2017-nimdm2017

8 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 9 2.6 BALLYGOWAN VILLAGE PLAN The action plan for Ballygowan is structured around – WIDER STRATEGIC FIT five key outcomes which match the outcomes contained 3 Ballygowan Village Plan – Consultation Process in the Big Plan for Ards and North Down. The village The Ballygowan Village Plan is focused on the plans also feed into to the Council’s Corporate Plan specific issues and actions needed within the local and its three categories of People, Place and Prosperity. The key aim of village planning is to ensure the local area. However, it does not exist in isolation – the community has a clear role and input into agreeing plan links closely to the focus and outcomes of the The forthcoming Local Development Plan (LDP) will the issues to be addressed and actions to be taken ‘Big Plan’6, and issues relevant to other statutory provide a 15-year framework to support economic, forward as part of the plan. stakeholders including health, education, policing environmental and social needs of the Borough while and public transport. providing for the delivery of sustainable development. At the beginning of this process engagement took It will guide development decisions within the Borough place with Ballygowan and District Community The village planning process ensures the involvement up to 2030. Association to ensure a partnership approach in of local communities in agreeing actions to address the preparation and delivery of this village plan. local needs, which is essential to securing sustainable There is also a range of thematic Council strategies improvements and positive outcomes for each village. which provide a specific context for many of the actions contained within each village plan. These relate 3.1 BALLYGOWAN VILLAGE PLAN Engaging with local communities and supporting the to key issues or sectors including, food, car parking – REVIEW AND UPDATE development of village plans is a key activity for local or recreation. It will be important to ensure a strong The revised village plan for Ballygowan has been councils. The actions contained within each village link between each strategy and village plan. developed through several stages which provided plan links closely to the broad remit of council in terms opportunities to consult with the local community. of supporting regeneration, facilitating economic Village plans also link to and help deliver wider Engagement with a range of stakeholders including development, promoting tourism, protecting the government policy at a local level, including the Draft Ards and North Down Borough Council, statutory environment and encouraging participation in Programme for Government, Regional Development partners, businesses, community and voluntary groups health and wellbeing activities. Strategy, and sector specific policies for tourism, investment and regeneration. was undertaken to help develop the final action plan. The village plan has been shaped by a thorough assessment process including site analysis, village profiling, public consultation and the gathering of DRAFT information through the distribution of questionnaires. PROGRAMME CORPORATE BALLYGOWAN FOR PLAN The plan seeks to build on partnership working VILLAGE GOVERNMENT and capacity building within the community by PLAN consolidating existing and creating new working partnerships. Through the plan, responsibilities are also placed on identified groups, organisations and stakeholders to lead on specific actions.

INTEGRATED STRATEGIES REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN THEMATIC STRATEGIES

THE BIG PLAN OUTCOMES LOCAL DEVELOPMENT 1 2 3 4 5 Key - Responsibilities PLAN Central Government Listed in the Action Plan on page 30 Multiple stakeholders Ards and North Down Borough Council Figure 2: Strategic context for Ballygowan Village Plan

6 The Big Plan for Ards and North Down April 2017–2032.

10 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 11 The key stages in developing the Ballygowan Village Plan are detailed in Table 1:

STAGE ACTION / ACTIVITY UNDERTAKEN

Initial meeting with Ballygowan and District Community Association to secure 1. Initial Community engagement in the village planning process. The meeting provided an opportunity to Engagement review the current plan and achievements as well as emerging issues and priorities.

An in-depth review of the current village plan was undertaken including an assessment of delivery against agreed actions. 2. Village Plan Review, Profiling and Analysis In addition, a review of all available statistical information was undertaken alongside a review of documentation and desktop research to establish a detailed profile of the area.

The local community was invited to attend a consultation event on Monday 20th November 2017 in Ballygowan Village Hall. The meeting was facilitated by Insight Solutions and the Rural Development Council with assistance from Ballygowan and District Community Association. Approximately 35 members of the local community attended the meeting. 3. Community A meeting was held with local traders from Ballygowan on Monday 6th November Consultation 2017 in Ballygowan Village Hall. Representatives from 10 businesses attended (Stage 1) the meeting which provided an opportunity to identify actions to support local enterprise and business development. A meeting was also held with the owners of the local quarry. These engagement sessions helped bring the local community together to share their views on the village and generated considerable feedback regarding the village strengths, weaknesses and future opportunities.

A community survey was developed to ensure that everyone in Ballygowan could partake in the village planning consultation process. The survey was designed to allow residents to comment on the key issues, 4. Community Survey concerns and priorities they felt existed in relation to the local village area. The survey was circulated online and hard copies were provided at key locations throughout the village (e.g. shop). In total 227 responses were returned. Details of the findings from the community survey are contained in Appendix A.

Based on the initial profiling, consultation and community survey a draft village 5. Community plan was developed. The draft plan aimed to ‘shape up’ and reflect the issues Consultation raised by the local community. A meeting to agree the draft plan was held with (Stage 2) Ballygowan and District Community Association to ensure it reflected local needs and was deliverable.

In the context of the feedback provided in relation to the draft plan, a final village 6. Final Village Plan plan was produced for 2018–2023.

Table 1 – Community Consultation and Engagement Process

12 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 13 4 Analysis and Findings 4.1 IDENTIFYING PRIORITIES AND ACTIONS “Peaceful surroundings away from the hustle “The friendship Advice services A total of 227 surveys were returned (97 received online and bustle of Belfast and community.” for residents/ and 130 hard copy) which provides a strong source of but an easy commute.” community issues information on actions to be included in the final village Adult Education, plan. Details of the findings from the community survey training or are contained in Appendix A employment Over half (60%) of consultee's believe Ballygowan Activities for provides a good quality of life. The rural location with Consultee's are less positive about the facilities Older People quick and easy access to Belfast and Lisburn for available in the area with 43% of people describing Health and work are key strengths. Consultee's feel safe in the them as bad, with a similar view in relation to services Wellbeing Activities area and enjoy the community spirit and friendliness available in Ballygowan. Overall, it would appear that of neighbours. Being close to family and a sense of whilst there are many aspects of Ballygowan making Community Events belonging were also cited as the best things about living it desirable to live in, residents strongly believe local in the area. The majority (85%) of survey respondents facilities and services could be improved. The key Road Safety have lived in Ballygowan for over five years. concerns and issues raised have been identified below. Initiatives Sport and Recreation Facilities Community Facilities and Services Traffic Management • Extend and refurbish village hall Issues “Could provide more Activities for • Provision of community health hub for local area if Young People • Outreach of key health services village hall improved.” Appearance of • Support local groups and community activities the local area “Serious lack of (walking groups, exercise classes) 0% 100% facilities for the • More activities for young people young people Figure 3: Programmes, activities and service priorities • Address anti-social behaviour (aged 10–17).”

• Lack of public transport services Consultee's were asked about the key issues impacting High Facilities for Younger People on the local area as well as the types of activities, priority programmes or services they would like to see in Roads, Traffic and Parking Ballygowan (Figure 3). This is to ensure the village “The state of the roads, plan includes actions that go beyond those relating • Lack of suitable parking throughout village traffic management, to the physical environment or infrastructure Road Safety / Traffic Management footpaths, lack of improvements within Ballygowan. • Inappropriate all-day (commuter) parking and parking pedestrian crossings & outside residents’ homes parking management Given the strength of consultee's feeling it is no surprise that when asked to prioritise community Community Facilities • Lack of parking restrictions (e.g. 1 or 2 hour) are shocking.” services, programmes or activities, the appearance • Road safety, traffic calming and condition of roads of the local area, activities for young people, road safety initiatives and traffic management are at • Volume of traffic especially heavy traffic (from quarry) Village Appearance “The potholes and the forefront of people’s minds. • Poor re-instatement work by utility companies loose stones left on When survey respondents were asked to prioritise • Poor quality or lack of footpaths roads by lorries are the key issues affecting the local area (see Figure 4) a major issue.” facilities for young people were ranked in first place, Sports and Leisure Facilities followed by road safety in second and community facilities in third. Village Appearance, Dog Fouling and Litter There is agreement on the need to improve Additional Shops / Business Units • Run down, tired look of village “Run down, the appearance of the village, implement better • Increased planting, greenery and street furniture drab appearance maintenance of roads and footpaths, improve of overall connectivity, strengthen the local economy and Low • Gateway signage and focal point (roundabout) village area.” Tourism and Heritage Services provide better community facilities for all residents, priority • Maintenance of hedges and grass verges especially young people. Figure 4: Priorities for Ballygowan • Dog fouling and littering • More investment in local area

14 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 15 5 Vision and Overarching Outcomes 5.3 BALLYGOWAN – ‘AT A GLANCE’ The Ballygowan infographic summarises the key findings and issues emerging from the community consultation. It highlights the positive aspects about living in the local area and summarises the key concerns of residents. 5.1 BALLYGOWAN VISION STATEMENT It sets out the actions consultee's wish to see delivered over the next five years in terms of infrastructure, facilities and local services. Ballygowan is a vibrant, sustainable rural community which provides a healthy environment for all its residents and a good place to live, work and play • 60% Rated Quality of Life as Good within a caring and organised community. At a Glance • 43% Rated Quality of Facilities as Good 5.2 OVERARCHING OUTCOMES • 37% Rated Quality of Services as Good 1. Ballygowan Achieving its Full Potential • Community activities and programmes Key Issues for young people Community spirit; location; friendly; countryside; quiet; • Community education programmes Best Part of Living feels safe; people are friendly; environment; walks; • Outreach of key community services in Ballygowan rural setting; close knit; local shops; nature; affordable 1. Facilities for Young housing; low crime rate; close to Belfast; peaceful • Community food project People • Community events and information sharing • Ballygowan community website /community noticeboard 1. Facilities for Young People • Development of village hall 2. Village Appearance 2. Road Safety Measures Top 5 Physical 2. A Healthy and Active Ballygowan 3. Community Facilities Improvements: • Community health hub 4. Village Appearance • Recreational facilities at Moss Road (playing fields) 3. Sports and Recreation 5. Sports and Leisure Facilities • Playing surface – Moss Road • Walking trails and cycle paths 1. Programmes to Improve Local Area • Information and signage on trails/paths 4. Litter and Dog Fouling 2. Activities for Young People 3. A Connected, Safe and Secure Ballygowan Top 5 Service Delivery 3. Traffic Management • Improved road safety and traffic calming Improvements: • Options to address impact caused from high volume 4. Sport and Leisure Programmes of lorries passing through village 5. Road Safety 5. Road Safety Initiatives • Additional car parking within village, time-restricted parking and ‘park and ride/park and share’ • Resurfacing of minor, access and connecting roads Priority Action: Improved Provision of Car Parking (and improve quality of footpaths) • Re-instatement work by utility companies • Improved public transport provision • Address anti-social behaviour and low-level crime

4. Supporting the Local Economy and Employment in Ballygowan • Local traders forum • Employment and skills development • Local apprenticeships and work experience

5. Supporting the Local Environment, History and Heritage in Ballygowan • Provision of gateway signage • Environmental improvement/public realm plans • Focal point at roundabout (art piece/sculpture) • Dog fouling and litter bins • Community planting schemes and street furniture • Village hall – green space and play facilities • Promotion of local assets

16 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 17 6 Detail of Village Projects 1.2 COMMUNITY SPACE OUTCOME 2: 1.2.1 Development of village hall A HEALTHY AND ACTIVE BALLYGOWAN

There is support from the local community for the 2.1 HEALTH AND WELLBEING SERVICES OUTCOME 1: redevelopment of the village hall to ensure that BALLYGOWAN ACHIEVING ITS FULL POTENTIAL it continues to provide a key community resource. 2.1.1 Feasibility study – community health hub It is clear from the last village plan and through 1.1 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND SERVICES the current community engagement process that 1.1.1 Development of community activities and there is a demand for improved provision of health, programmes for young people social care and wellbeing services within Ballygowan. It is suggested that a community health hub could The youth club is undertaking important work provide GP services, a pharmacy , mental health to improve programmes for young people in the local support, optician, dentist, health promotion activities area. Around 80 young people currently attend across and allied healthcare services (e.g. Occupational a range of ages. Therapist, podiatrist). Comments focus on the need to support the youth A feasibility study has been completed with findings club in terms of the range of programmes and activities presented to Ballygowan and District Community that could be provided in the area. In addition, many Association AGM in October 2018 with the following key consultee's feel there is a lack of youth friendly facilities recommendation: in the village which results in young people having nowhere to go in the evening or during school holidays. ‘Help inform Ballygowan residents about their options with respect to GP and dental surgeries, and about Although activities should be aimed at supporting public and community transport choices. Co-ordinating 1.1.4 Community food project all young people in the area, there is a need to focus The village hall is well used, in the evenings, by a range appointments may make travel easier. Community on those young people aged 12–18. Actions include Initial work were undertaken during the previous plan of local groups. However, the current design of the hall, momentum could be kept up through meetings with encouraging increased participation in sport and for the small-scale growing of herbs and vegetables at which provides one large meeting space, means that key parties (e.g. Public Health Authority, GPs) to pilot programmes to develop life skills, employability and the village hall. There was a lack of involvement by the it isn’t possible to hold more than one activity at a time. more community-based health outreach programmes personal development. A needs assessment with young local community this led to the project not progressing In addition, the village hall lacks suitable storage in Ballygowan.’ people in the area will be undertaken to understand as initially planned. and currently makes use of a large container located The focus now is to ensure the local community works the range of activities and programmes to be delivered. at the back of the hall. However, this is an issue some consultee's would in partnership with key statutory agencies including 1.1.2 Community Education Programmes like to revisit by identifying opportunities to become An extension of the current hall to the back and/or council and the health sector to implement the involved with the ‘Incredible Edible’ network which side of the existing building could increase capacity recommendations arising from the feasibility study. Those consulted would like to see a greater range provides support for small-scale community food by providing additional meeting and activity space of community-based programmes and activities offered growing projects. whilst also increasing available storage. 2.2 SPORTS AND RECREATION FACILITIES locally. This includes educational classes (e.g. IT), and 2.2.1 Feasibility study – recreational facilities at sports recreational classes which will support social interaction 1.1.5 Community events in the area. A needs assessment should be undertaken pitch site on Moss Road This is in response to a demand for a greater range to determine the range of programmes to be delivered. Currently the pitches at Moss Road provide playing of programmes and activities to be organised and space for use by local groups and sporting clubs. offered locally. The focus of events could be linked 1.1.3 Outreach of key services This is an open site which could be improved to to sport and recreation, natural heritage, history provide better facilities to support sports and The provision of services in Ballygowan is a key or community fun days. concern for the community. recreational activities. This includes the provision of a walking loop/trail and outdoor gym. Those consulted highlighted a need for the outreach 1.1.6 Ballygowan community website A feasibility study will be undertaken to determine the of key health services linked to the development Residents often learn about events and activities potential of developing additional recreational facilities of a community health hub (action 2.1.1). Beyond through the church notice board, weekly bulletin, at the sports pitch site at Moss Road and consider the specific health services those consulted were the schools and word of mouth. It is proposed to link benefits this would deliver for the local area. interested in wellbeing services or programmes up and complement these means with a single website that focus on mental health, health promotion for use by residents, as well as local groups, businesses and supporting healthy lifestyles. and visitors. The site should be simple and easy to use, With the roll out of Universal Credit there is a specific providing space for events to be announced, to support demand for regular outreach services by advice local groups and encourage communication between organisations such as Advice NI in relation to financial residents. The setting up and regular maintenance capability, debt advice and welfare reform. of a ‘one stop shop’ community website and/or social network site could benefit residents and local groups The first stage of this process is to undertake an by facilitating the sharing of information and encouraging assessment of existing services available in order participation in community-based activities. to identify any gaps in current provision.

18 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 19 3.2 CAR PARKING 3.2.2 Time-restricted parking along Main Street Priority 3.2.1 Additional car parking within village Project The car parking spaces located at the front of the shops along Main Street are intended to facilitate Car parking is a key issue for people living in short-term parking for people using the shops. However, Ballygowan. Those consulted reported that there businesses report that these spaces are often used all is a lack of suitable parking for people visiting shops day by commuters who are travelling on to Belfast. or businesses in the village. Spaces that are intended for people visiting shops are often used inappropriately To address this issue these spaces could be subject for all-day commuter parking. As a result, people to time-restricted parking. The time limit is to be wishing to visit local shops often have to park in the agreed with the local community but restricting village hall car park which has a knock-on effect on parking to less than a full day would prevent these people using the village hall or adjacent playpark. spaces being blocked each day and increase turnover trade for local businesses. Options which would increase the provision of car parking spaces available in Ballygowan must be 3.2.3 Park and ride/park and share developed. This action will require engagement with Many people living in Ballygowan commute to places key stakeholders and organisations that have parking such as Belfast and Lisburn for work. With an increasing provision within the village and may be open to population, the numbers commuting will only continue entering into an agreement which would allow to increase. A feasibility study should be undertaken to 2.2.2 Playing surface and facilities at the sports pitch OUTCOME 3: wider public access and use. determine the benefits of providing a park and ride/park on Moss Road A CONNECTED, SECURE AND SAFE BALLYGOWAN Ards and North Down Borough Council has undertaken and share at Moss Road. If provided this could also have The need to improve the actual playing surface of a review of car parking provision across towns and a positive impact on the lack of parking within the sports pitch on Moss Road. These pitches suffer 3.1 ROAD SAFETY AND TRAFFIC CALMING villages, including Ballygowan. The village plan the immediate village area. will, where appropriate, support delivery of the from poor drainage, poor marking out of pitch and the 3.1.1 Road safety and traffic calming measures goalposts/netting could be improved. Many residents recommendations contained within the Car Parking who use the pitches, especially with younger groups, Excessive speeding through Ballygowan is a key Strategy as they relate to Ballygowan. reflect that the changing facilities and toilets also concern for consultees. This is an issue which appears need to be improved. to effect all routes into and through Ballygowan including Moss Road, Belfast Road, Saintfield Road 2.2.3 Walking trails and cycle paths and Comber Road. Ballygowan is situated within a scenic, rural location Consultees wish to see traffic calming measures which provides an excellent setting for people to walk at key entry/exit points are introduced. This could and cycle. During the consultation exercise many include the incorporation of speed warning signage, residents felt more could be done to ensure Ballygowan speed humps, and if required, the narrowing is connected to other walks in order to encourage more of the carriageway/road through the use of people to get outdoors and enjoy the local area. build-outs or chicanes. To examine the opportunity to develop a walkway/link In addition, the quality of street lighting throughout to Comber (onto the Comber Greenway). In addition, the village needs improving. An assessment of the to determine the potential of extending the Comber current provision of street lighting across the village cycle path to Ballygowan via the old County Down is to be undertaken to identify improvements required. Railway line. Consideration should be given to bespoke design of street lighting that contributes to local identity. 2.2.4 Information on walking trails and signage to provide village information 3.1.2 Identify options to address impact caused by high volume of lorries passing through village During the public engagement it was agreed that improved information and signage in relation to walks A high volume of lorries passes through the village and parks in the local area could be beneficial for both from the quarry on the Moss Road, which causes residents and tourists. a range of issues such as congestion, speed and impacts on the quality of the road network. However, Appropriate signage to provide information on residents recognise the contribution the quarry makes walking paths and routes could be erected at to the local economy and accept that it works within key sites throughout the local area. Further work current operating restrictions. Likewise, engagement could be undertaken to agree the information to with the quarry owners demonstrates a willingness be presented and identify where best to locate the to work with the local community to find sustainable panels. Information could also be provided on local solutions to reduce the impact on the local community. history, heritage and nature. The positive relationship and engagement between the local community and quarry owners should be maintained and regular meetings organised in order to fully consider the impact on the village from quarry traffic and identify potential solutions.

20 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 21 3.3 IMPROVED ROADS AND ACCESS 3.3.1 Resurfacing of minor, access and connecting roads The roads are in poor condition at the key entry/exit points to the village. The consultation has also shown that many roads within the village are in a poor state of repair, with numerous potholes and uneven surfaces being commonplace. It is suggested that a full roads condition assessment could be undertaken throughout the village and a prioritised programme of remedial works developed for future delivery.

3.3.2 Improve the quality, surface and maintenance of key footpaths The poor quality and condition of footpaths throughout the village was highlighted as an issue. Following consultation with the local community, a programme of footpath improvement works to identify and prioritise problematic footpaths in the local area could be agreed with the Department for Infrastructure. Those consulted also wish to see the clean-up of moss-covered paths and roads, as well as regular grass and hedge cutting.

3.3.3 Reinstatement work by utility companies Those consulted commented that the condition of roads and pathways throughout the village were returned in following works by utility companies 3.4 COMMUNITY SAFETY was not satisfactory. In particular the poor quality of reinstatement works along Church Hill and 3.4.1 Address anti-social behaviour and low-level crime the entrance to Dickson Park was highlighted. Those consulted report an increasing occurrence Engagement with relevant utility companies will of anti-social behaviour and low-level crime in be undertaken to explain the concerns of residents the local area. Therefore, it is intended to develop a regarding reinstatement works and seek assurance range of activities working alongside the Police and on future works. Community Safety Partnership and other key statutory OUTCOME 4: sector to increase employability and entrepreneurship agencies to help reduce anti-social behaviour and low- SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY AND amongst key groups such as young adults and 3.3.4 Improved public transport provision level crime. EMPLOYMENT IN BALLYGOWAN unemployed people. A lack of public transport to surrounding areas was This will require a strategic approach, which involves all highlighted as a key issue preventing access to local 3.4.2 Address fear of crime 4.1 SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS AND key stakeholders (statutory, private and community), to services and hampering visits to friends and family. Rural crime and the fear of crime are concerns ECONOMY focus on supporting skills, employment and attracting Many residents commented that they would use the for some consultee's in the local area. This was investment to the local area. bus more if there were regular services to Saintfield, 4.1.1 Develop a local traders forum in Ballygowan particularly evident for older people living in Ballygowan. Crossgar and Downpatrick. During weekends and public People will not have accessed educational, skills People living in the local area wish to see an increased There is a range of active businesses in the local area. holidays the bus service to Belfast and Newtownards or training opportunities in a number of years there visible police presence to help address these concerns. As a result of the village planning process it has been was also considered infrequent and poor. could be support from community-based organisations Community-based programmes that can help inform agreed to establish a local traders forum in Ballygowan. to increase confidence and encourage participation It is suggested that engagement takes place with and reassure older people in relation to home safety, This will allow traders to come together to consider in training and educational programmes. public transport providers including Translink and crime prevention, scam awareness and bogus callers issues affecting businesses in the village, and consider Down Community Transport to secure improvements could also be implemented over the course actions which could both support businesses and 4.1.3 Local apprenticeship/work experience scheme to services where these are deemed to be required. of the village plan. improve the retail offering in Ballygowan. Supporting young people to develop skills and A local business register could be developed and experience that would help them enter the job market businesses profiled through social media, the internet, was a focus for discussions during the community and word of mouth. engagement. Several businesses highlighted that an approach which offers work-based placements could 4.1.2 Employment and skills development be a positive development. The potential of developing Employment, growing the local economy and supporting a local apprenticeship/work experience scheme to help job opportunities are important issues for the local area. schoolchildren consider career options and develop To support the delivery of programmes in partnership skills could be examined. with statutory agencies, community and voluntary

22 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 23 OUTCOME 5: 5.1.3 Signature art piece/sculpture at roundabout SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ENVIRONMENT, The roundabout in the middle of Ballygowan is a key HISTORY AND HERITAGE IN BALLYGOWAN focal point as almost all traffic uses it to access the village or as part of their onward journey. However, 5.1 VILLAGE APPEARANCE there is consensus that it is unappealing and does not add to the aesthetics of the local area. 5.1.1 Environmental improvement schemes/public realm A new piece of artwork could be commissioned for The consultation reported that Ballygowan is run installation at the roundabout. The artwork, such as down and tired with many areas of the village requiring an appropriately scaled sculpture, could have specific environmental improvements. There is a desire to see resonance with the history and heritage of Ballygowan. a range of environmental improvements implemented across the village which could help with improving 5.1.4 Dog fouling and littering the general appearance of the entire area. It is important to to ensure a joined-up approach is taken to planning A key concern expressed by residents is the prevalence any improvement works to ensure an overall theme of dog fouling and littering across the village. This could or identity for the local area is developed. be addressed via the installation of additional bins along key walking routes in the village, supported by adequate The implementation of a programme of works to include enforcement and education. streetscaping, landscaping, public art, lighting, planting, street furniture and signage would positively impact 5.1.5 Floral displays and planting on the appearance of the village, and has the potential to attract further investment to the area. Residents and businesses wish to see a range of landscaping improvements in Ballygowan to help Initially various concept designs could be developed with improve the general appearance of the village. This a view to capital works being implemented in the future. action proposes to extend the planting of flower beds and greenery throughout the village. 5.1.2 Provision of gateway signage Those consulted wish to ensure that any improvements There are a number of key routes into and through to street furniture and streetscape are in keeping with Ballygowan which could be considered for gateway the character of the village. signage. This includes Belfast Road, Comber Road, Saintfield Road, Moss Road and Carrickmannon Road. 5.1.6 Village hall – green space and play facilities This action will ensure the provision of appropriate The existing village hall, playpark and green space welcome signage and in addition, and where appropriate, require improvement works. This could include artwork, planting, lighting and other visual improvements. landscaping, planting, benches and fencing along the banking and roadside which would improve use of the space by families and children.

5.2 TOURISM AND PROMOTION OF LOCAL ASSETS 5.2.1 Promotion of key village assets and attractions Ballygowan has a rich history dating back many centuries. An overarching approach to develop a joined-up tourist product which reflects key attractions in the local area could be a positive step. The local community works with key statutory agencies to develop an agreed theme/identity for the village. This could be linked to its heritage, history and culture which can be incorporated across information, promotional activities and events. Part of this proposal will involve improving the availability of information and providing signage for visitors on the history and heritage of Ballygowan and key village assets such as walkways, fishing and the old railway.

24 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 25 6.1 MAP OF BALLYGOWAN VILLAGE ACTIONS

OUTCOME 1 – D

A

O BALLYGOWAN ACHIEVING 5.1.6 1.2.1 3.2.2 R N ITS FULL POTENTIAL E D A A A R W RO B 1.2.1 Development of village hall AN O V E AR G G H LLY Y TU T LL

A B OUTCOME 2 – A HEALTHY AND ACTIVE BALLYGOWAN D B A E O 2.2.1 Feasibility study – recreational L R F E AS S facility at sports pitch site on U T O R C Moss Road S O A A R D E 2.2.2 Playing surface and facilities at H G A the sports pitch on Moss Road M

OUTCOME 3 –

E A CONNECTED, SAFE AND A R B SECURE BALLYGOWAN E H T 3.2.2 Time restricted parking along main street 3.2.3 Park and ride/park and share

OUTCOME 5 – SUPPORTING THE LOCAL AD RO ENVIRONMENT, HISTORY AND ER MB CO HERITAGE IN BALLYGOWAN 5.1.1 5.1.1 Environmental improvement schemes/Public realm 5.1.3 5.1.3 Signature art piece/sculpture at roundabout CH U 5.1.6 Village hall – green space and R 3.2.3 D CH Trinity OA H play facilities D R ILL Presb Church IEL TF IN 2.2.1 2.2.2 SA St Mary's Pr Sch

M OSS ROAD

C A R R I C K M A N N MO O SS R N OAD R O AD RAVARA ROAD

Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland, Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland - © Crown Copyright and Database Right *Wider Village Projects — Location to be agreed

26 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 27 7.4 ACTION PLAN • Amended action: an action which had been 7 Delivery of Ballygowan Village Plan included in the original September 2013 plan which The action plan links through to the outcomes of has been amended or changed for the revised plan the Big Plan. This ensures that the plan is set within (due to changing needs or the action has partially 7.1 INTRODUCTION the context of the wider strategic fit. been delivered); Included in the action plan is the priority of each The key aim of the Ballygowan Action Plan is to • New action: an action which was not included in the project (high, medium and low), based on the demand prioritise projects which have been identified through September 2013 plan. expressed by the local community, and likely impact the community consultation process. it will have on the area. Each project has been allocated The action plan is structured around the five key The successful achievement of these actions will a short, medium or long-term timeframe, which relates outcomes of the Big Plan for Ards and North Down. As require input from a wide range of organisations to the following timescales: part of the Big Plan an initial set of indicators have been across the public, private and community sectors. identified to measure progress towards each outcome • Short-term projects are those actions the community A review of available funding streams will also – these are the ‘Agreed Indicators’. In addition, there would like to see progressed within 18 months; be important on an ongoing basis to ensure that is a series of indicators currently being progressed for the actions in the plan are implemented and that • Medium-term refers to those projects which are which data is not yet available or robust enough – these Ballygowan can achieve its long-term vision to be taken forward within 18 months to three years; are the ‘Indicators to be developed’. In the Ballygowan for the future. Village Action Plan the ‘Success Indicator’ column • Long-term actions would be delivered over the next links each action to an indicator (either agreed or to three to five years. 7.2 DELIVERY STRUCTURES be developed) from the Big Plan. The keys used for As previously highlighted this action plan reflects indicators are included in Table 2, page 33. It is important that there are appropriate local the ongoing work from the previous plan produced structures in place to maintain a focus on delivering In addition, the action plan also identifies the in September 2013. Some actions remain a priority the plan and tracking its progress. This will ensure stakeholders, including lead partner, whose involvement so have been carried over to this plan, other actions actions to be progressed by the local community in the relevant action or project would be necessary. It have been amended to reflect the progress achieved are delivered, but also provide a mechanism to is important to note that the action plan should be used (or changing need) whilst other actions are new. ensure actions led by statutory partners or other as a live document to ensure progress is monitored Therefore, the action plan outlines the following stakeholders are kept live and progress reported regularly and updated accordingly (Appendix B). It is indicators: on a regular basis. only natural that priorities may change over time or • Existing action: an action which has been included new projects and opportunities will arise in future, and It is proposed that a local steering group will be (in full) from the original September 2013 plan; these should be assessed against the overarching aims established with the support of Ards and North Down identified in the action plan where appropriate. Borough Council. The key focus for this group will be on the delivery of the village action plan. The steering group will monitor and report on progress, whilst also considering any issues that may impact (or delay) the successful completion of actions within the plan, ensuring accountability across all stakeholders. To support delivery of the action plan a monitoring framework has been included in Appendix B. This will allow the local steering group to agree priorities, identify key actions, oversee delivery, track progress and report on achievements over the lifetime of the village plan.

7.3 SUPPORTING DELIVERY OF THE ACTION PLAN There is a wide range of funding sources available from public, charitable and corporate sectors which can help the local community maximise opportunities to deliver their village plan. Notable funding bodies and organisations include the Big Lottery Fund, Community Foundation for Northern Ireland, Children in Need, Comic Relief and Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust. However, the eligibility criteria, application process, focus and money available will be specific to each funder and individual programmes. Each village will be supported, where appropriate, by the Regeneration, Development and Planning Directorate and any other relevant Council departments, including on how to track and identify suitable sources of funding available in Northern Ireland.

28 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 29 7.5 BALLYGOWAN VILLAGE ACTION PLAN (2018–2023) OUTCOME 3: A CONNECTED, SECURE AND SAFE BALLYGOWAN

OUTCOME 1: BALLYGOWAN ACHIEVING ITS FULL POTENTIAL Plan Timescale Lead Success Action Description Action Status Stakeholders Reference (S, M, L)* Partner(s) Indicators Plan Timescale Lead Success Action Description Action Status Stakeholders Reference (S, M, L)* Partner(s) Indicators Road safety and traffic ANDBC, 3.1.1 M Existing DfI Roads 3.1 Road calming measures BDCA safety Development of community 3.2 CDRCN, 1.8, 2.4, 2.6, and traffic Identify options to address impact 1.1.1 activities and programmes for S New BDCA ANDBC, ANDBC 3.6 calming 3.1.2 caused by the high volume of M New DfI Roads young people BDCA lorries passing through village BDCA, CDRCN, DfI Roads, 1.3, 1.5, 4.1, 3.2.1 Additional car parking within village S New ANDBC 1.1.2 Community education programmes M New ANDBC EA, local BDCA 4.7 colleges, 3.2, 4.2 HSCT ANDBC, 3.2 Car Time-restricted parking along 3.2.2 S New DfI Roads Local traders, Parking Main Street ANDBC, BDCA 1.1 1.1.3 Outreach of key services M New BDCA CDRCN, CAB, 1.4, 2.3, 2.4 Community Advice NI ANDBC, Engagement 3.2.3 Park and ride/park and share S New DfI Roads 3.2, 4.2, 5.11 BDCA and Services ANDBC, 1.1.4 Community food project S Existing BDCA 1.8, 2.4 CDRCN, Resurfacing of minor, access 3.3.1 S Amended DfI Roads ANDBC and connecting roads BDCA. 1.1.5 Community events M Amended BDCA CDRCN, 1.4, 1.8, 2.4 Improve the quality, surface ANDBC, HSCT 3.3.2 M Existing DfI Roads 3.2, 5.7 3.3 Improved and maintenance of footpaths BDCA Local traders Roads and access Reinstatement work by PNG, ANDBC, 1.1.6 Ballygowan community website S New BDCA forum, 1.4, 1.8, 2.4 3.3.3 M New DfI Roads ANDBC utility companies BDCA

1.2 RCTP, Community 1.2.1 Development of village hall M New ANDBC BDCA 1.8, 2.4 3.3.4 Improved public transport provision M New Translink ANDBC, 5.11 Space BDCA

Address anti-social behaviour and ANDBC, 3.4.1 M New PSNI 3.4 low-level crime BDCA OUTCOME 2: A HEALTHY AND ACTIVE BALLYGOWAN Community 3.3, 3.4, 3.5 Safety ANDBC, 3.4.2 Address fear of crime M New PSNIv BDCA Plan Timescale Lead Success Action Description Action Status Stakeholders Reference (S, M, L)* Partner(s) Indicators

2.1 Health 1.4, 2.1, 2.2, and Feasibility study – ANDBC HSCT, BDCA, 2.1.1 S Amended 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, wellbeing community health hub (CPP) BRG 2.6 services OUTCOME 4: SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY AND EMPLOYMENT IN BALLYGOWAN Feasibility study – recreational BDCA, 2.2.1 facilities at sports pitch site M New BRG ANDBC Plan Timescale Lead Success on Moss Road 1.8, 2.4, 3.4 Action Description Action Status Stakeholders Reference (S, M, L)* Partner(s) Indicators Playing surface and facilities at ANDBC 2.2 Sports 2.2.2 S New BDCA, BRG and the sports pitch on Moss Road (Leisure) Develop a local traders forum Traders BCDA, 4.2, 4.5, 4.6, Recreation ANDBC BDCA, 4.1.1 S New 2.2.3 Walking trails and cycle paths L New in Ballygowan forum ANDBC 4.7 Facilities (Leisure) NMDDC 4.1 Support BDCA, Information on walking trails 2.4, 4.5, 5.7 ANDBC for Local 4.1.2 Employment and skills development M New ANDBC CDRCN, EA, 2.2.4 and signage to provide village S New BDCA, DfI (Regen) Business and local colleges information Economy 1.5, 4.1, 4.3, BDCA, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8 Local apprenticeship/ 4.1.3 M New ANDBC CDRCN, EA, work experience scheme local colleges

30 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 31 Table 2: Big Plan Outcomes and Indicators (Agreed and To Be Developed)

OUTCOME 5: SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ENVIRONMENT, HISTORY AND HERITAGE IN BALLYGOWAN The ‘Big Plan’ Outcomes Agreed (Success) Indicators (Success) Indicators to be Developed

1.1 Gap between % of non-free school meal 1.4 Number of older people living independently Plan Timescale Lead Success entitlement school leavers and % FSME school or in care i.e. having the correct support to allow Action Description Action Status Stakeholders Reference (S, M, L)* Partner(s) Indicators leavers achieving level 2 or above (In English them to live as they wish. and Maths) 1.5 Breakdown of types of skills and different Environmental improvement 1.2 Percentage of babies born at low birth weight demographics who are engaged in further 5.1.1 S New ANDBC DfC, BDCA OUTCOME 1 schemes/public realm education. All people in Ards and North 1.3 Number of further education regulated Down fulfil their lifelong potential enrolments by age 1.6 % of children at appropriate stage of DfI Roads, 5.1.2 Provision of gateway signage S New ANDBC development in the immediate preschool year BDCA 1.7 % of schools found to be good or better

Signature art piece/sculpture DfI Roads, 1.8 Number of people formally and informally 5.1.3 M New ANDBC 5.1 Improved at roundabout BDCA volunteering 2.4, 4.2, 4.4, Village 5.4, 5.7 Appearance DfI Roads, 5.1.4 Dog fouling and littering S Existing ANDBC 2.1 Number of anti-depressant drug items 2.4 % of the population participating in exercise BDCA OUTCOME 2 dispensed per head of registered population (sports and physical activity) one, three or five times per week. All people in Ards and North 2.2 Number of admissions to hospital per 100,000 5.1.5 Floral display and planting S Amended ANDBC BDCA Down enjoy good health and for drugs or alcohol-related causes 2.5 Monitoring of extent of long-term health conditions such as diabetes. wellbeing 2.3 Number of preventable deaths per 100,000 Village hall – green space population 2.6 GHQ12 scores as a measure of mental health 5.1.6 S Amended ANDBC BDCA and play facilities

5.2 3.1 Number of hospital admissions due to 3.5 % of the population who feel safe in their Tourism and Promotion of key village assets DfC, TNI, OUTCOME 3 accidents community 5.2.1 M New ANDBC 4.2, 4.4, 4.5 Promotion of and attractions BDCA All people in Ards and North 3.2 Number of road traffic casualties per 10,000 3.6 Opportunities for children to be involved in Local Assets Down live in communities where shared education 3.3 Number of recorded crime offences they are respected, safe and feel secure 3.4 Number of recorded anti-social behaviour Abbreviations: *Timescales: crime offences ANDBC – Ards and North Down Borough Council S – Short (0–18 months), 4.1 Working age population – skill levels 4.5 Breakdown of visitors to local tourism BDCA – Ballygowan and District Community Association M – Medium (18 months – 3 years), facilities, public parks, nature and historic sites. 4.2 GVA – Value of Estimate (£m) – BRG – Ballygowan Regeneration Group L – Long (3–5 years) Ards and North Down 4.6 Breakdown of wages by sector e.g. tourism, OUTCOME 4 – County Down Rural Community Network arts and crafts, agri-food, technology etc. CDRCN 4.3 Proportion of working age population who are All people in Ards and North **Actions Status: economically inactive (%) 4.7 A skills barometer – matching skills of people CPP – Community Planning Partnership Down benefit from a prosperous to businesses and a better jobs index. DfC – Department for Communities Existing – An action which was included economy 4.4 Total spend (£m) during overnight trips in the March 2013 plan 4.8 Breakdown of people who are economically DfI – Department for Infrastructure inactive and proportions of those who don’t want Amended – An action which has been updated EA – Education Authority to work or changed since the March plan HSCT – Health and Social Care Trust New – A new action (not included in March 2013 plan) 5.1 Number of applicants on Social Housing 5.3 Availability of good broadband and mobile NMDDC – Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Stress list phone coverage. PNG – Phoenix Natural Gas Success indicators 5.2 Area of pollinator friendly plants by Ards and 5.4 Number of people in urban areas who live North Down Borough Council (m2) within 1km of quality green space. PSNI – Police Service of Northern Ireland This is an indication of how individual actions may TNI – Tourism NI contribute to the overall Big Plan. NB: these indicators 5.5 Number of designated sites in favourable condition and number of buildings at risk. may change and evolve over time. 5.6 Number of biodiversity audits (habitat and OUTCOME 5 species surveys) undertaken on publicly owned land All people in Ards and North Down feel pride from having 5.7 Length of greenways, walking routes, canoe access to a well-managed trails and cycle paths. sustainable environment 5.8 Extent of coastal changes and the economic social and environmental impacts.

5.9 Reporting of invasive species on publicly owned/managed land.

5.10 % of energy from renewable sources (generated or used within Ards and North Down).

5.11 Investment in and use of transport infrastructure (private and public).

NB: these indicators may change and evolve over time.

32 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 33 Question 4 & 5: How many people, including yourself, are there in your household in each 8 Appendices of the following age groups?

Number in Household APPENDIX A – Age Group Not BALLYGOWAN COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS AND QUESTIONNAIRE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10+ Anwsered The summary results from all questions included in the community survey for Ballygowan have been provided in this Appendix. Male 30 11 3 – – – – – – – 183 0–4 Female 38 10 – 1 – – – – – – 178 Male 48 11 – – – – 1 – – 1 166 BALLYGOWAN COMMUNITY SURVEY – SUMMARY RESULTS 5–17 Female 49 13 4 – – – – – – – 161 Question 1: How long have you lived in the local area? Male 78 13 1 – – – – – – – 135 18–35 Female 90 2 3 – – – – – – – 132 Less than 1 year 1.8% Male 80 3 – – – – – – – – 144 36–50 1-3 years 10.6% Female 91 – – – – – – – – – 136 3-5 years 7.1% Male 50 – – – – – – – – – 177 51–65 5-10 years 13.7% Female 43 – – – – 1 – – – – 184 10+ years 64.8% Male 3 – – – – – – – – – 224 65+ Do not currently live 2.2% Female 8 – – – – – – – – – 219 in the local area Not answered Question 6: Overall, taking all into consideration how would you… 0% 147 people asked 100% 6.1 Rate the quality of life in Ballygowan

Question 2: What is your age? Good 60.4% Neither Good Under 16 years old 33.5% nor Bad 17-25 years old 11% Bad 6.1% 26-39 years old 47.1% Not Answered 40-59 years old 34.8% 0% 137 people asked 100% 60+ years old 7%

Not answered 6.2 Rate the quality of facilities in Ballygowan 0% 50 people asked 100% Good 19.8% Question 3: What is your employment status? Neither Good 37% nor Bad Self employed 7.5% Bad 43.2% Working (part time) 15.9% Not Answered Working (full time) 58.6% 0% 98 people asked 100% Unemployed 3.5% Retired 6.6% 6.3 Rate the quality of services in Ballygowan Training/College/ 4.9% University Good 26.4% Pernament sick/ 2.6% Neither Good 36.1% Disabled nor Bad Not answered 0.4% Bad 37% 0% 133 people asked 100% Not Answered 0.4% 0% 84 people asked 100%

34 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 35 Question 7: What do you feel is the best thing about living in Ballygowan? • There is shops on your door step, • Rural location • Close to Comber, Saintfield, Ards and there is a bus service and east Belfast • Convenient to shops • The people • Good for commuting • Peaceful surroundings away from • Everyone knows each other • Friendly enough place to live. • Good positioning to local towns. the hustle and bustle of Belfast Facilities haven't changed much • Friendly people everybody willing • Close to lots of towns. Good local • The friendship and community. • Living in the country but but an easy commute. in the 50 years I've lived here. to help you if needed. shops, butcher fish man petrol close to Belfast • Commute & location in general chemist etc. Hardware store • Small community • Have never lived anywhere • The number of different shops • Small quiet community. too. The village hall is good as • Handy to Belfast but far out else and although things have available and friendly community • The people, the shops and the well. Drawback is no GP surgery enough to be quiet and in the changed some not for the better • Community spirit. community feel • It's a good commuter town and anymore. Parking difficult when countryside I still love the fact that it’s where is nearby many villages something on at the hall. 3 • Village life better than town life I belong • There is nothing good about • It's is a lovely quiet village and has this place now I am a native churches within the area too. • Variety of shops • Nothing everything on your door step. • Friendly culture of the village and it’s just got Local shopkeepers friendly • Handy bus links to Belfast worse as the time goes on no and get to know u quickly. Good • I live just outside the main • Family. • I enjoy the village life. doctor's library beautician and hairdressers. housing developments and • The local businesses. • Sense of community. • Community centre and park Petrol station local, cost cutter appreciate the green fields, peace • I’m originally from Belfast so I like for kids • Safe community feel for bringing good. Various events on during and quiet. • Accessibility to main towns both the country feel BG still has to it up children the year. Variety of shops now for work and leisure. • Community spirit when events • Friendly familiar faces • It's quiet. Small community. have Mauds and dry cleaners. organised • Friendly village atmosphere and • Peaceful with friendly people. Close to countryside for walks. • Our neighbours • Local shops and community. close enough to Belfast for short • The sense of community and Events like musical evenings • Close to Belfast, Lisburn, commute into work. Good variety peaceful environment. • Countryside Good bus service. in the village hall. Church does Newtownards of local businesses (garage, Craigs • Close to all other towns and a big breakfast, Christmas stalls. • Being close to Belfast, • Living in a community with people newsagents, hairdressers) and • House prices reasonable villages, quiet area. Comber and Newtownards that you've known all your life. chippys. • Rural access but being a small village having • Quiet area People who want their community • Proximity to Belfast, small • Locality to other towns • The community a local community to be better community, rural setting • It's close to a lot of amenities. and Belfast • Was a good commute to Belfast. • We live in the countryside We also like that the village has • Its closeness to towns in the area • Access to other towns/cities. • The only good thing about outside the village which a rural feel. and house prices • The community, it’s a small living in Ballygowan is being is scenic and peaceful. • Country environment. village, everyone knows each • Ballygowan has been my home for • Close to work close to family. • Location - It's quiet and other and it’s nice for the kids • Good community spirit 19 years. Most people are friendly • It is quiet most of the time • I have lived in Ballygowan close to Belfast. and has good amenities. • Friendliness • The affordability of housing and on and off since I was born here • Lovely village with everything you • Being close to other places that the advantage of being in the • Beautiful scenery in the 70’s and it does make me • Living close to people you know need have great facilities i.e Comber, countryside but only 10/15 mins sad to see how well neighbouring • Majority of people are very friendly Dundonald and Ards etc. • Ballygowan is fairly central from the city • The people are what makes this villages of Saintfield and Comber and it's just generally a lovely to other locations. village. I am nearly 41 years of age have been looked after and • It has a good community, and has • Low crime rate and friendly place. place to live. and there is nothing more now Ballygowan has barely changed the potential to be a great little • Being able to live rural on a farm • Lots of local shops available • Community spirit and good in Ballygowan than there was at all. There have been numerous town. Cannot sustain or continue but commute easily to work neighbours and friends. Great when I was growing up. Easy roadworks/Phoenix gas in the with the lorries going through it, • Ballygowan is quiet, feels safe • Rural but convenient location school in ADPS which participate commute to all surrounding towns prospect Oakdale area and the dirt and state of the village and people are warm. great within the community the road has been left a complete • It's quiet • The people and roads is appalling. It is a pity • Council have provided a great mess not what I thought I paid because with good investment • A small rural community which is • Nice to be in a rural community recycling facility on the Moss Road • Great sense of community. my road tax for it’s like a the town has the ability to be a very friendly jigsaw puzzle good place. But there will be no • Accessible to shops to get • The local shops and services. • I moved back after being away • It has the best of flute and pipe point with the current number of groceries we need for dinner for 14 years. I luv Ballygowan but • All amenities are there chemist • Rural living. band (both Irish & Scottish) to be lorries etc going through it from its v v run down and not great shops butchers cafe hairdressers • The village can be peaceful. You found anywhere the quarry. • All amenities close. Not too far facilities when u look at Saintfield beauty etc can say hello to people walking from Belfast and Comber... • Keeping my horses close to me. down the street • We have lived here and raised • It’s a nice quiet area and you know our family for 40 years. We love And my elderly parent • Close to our Belfast commute, • It is near to family and easy to get most people and most people are • It’s rural positioning yet close our home but due to continued but far enough out of the city to Belfast. friendly and nice and also kind. • Living in the country, with a short proximity to Belfast/Bangor/ development, the community feel to be peaceful. travel time to Belfast. The people Lisburn is long gone. • Our friends and family are here. • Being close to family. are brilliant! • Neighbours If they weren't here we would be • Close proximity to Belfast and M1 • Local businesses and play parks • Commute to Belfast away. That's it!!!!!! • Easy routes to Belfast/Comber/ for commuting purposes • Shops and close to Belfast for children. • The people are so friendly Ards/Lisburn, great facilities • It's quiet no hassle • The community feel from a village • Rural location • Local people and nice. There is such good nearby, • Proximity. community spirits. The pizza shop • Proximity to Belfast and Ards • Close to Belfast by still rural • In the country • The sense of community and Mauds ice cream are also • I grew up here so it is home • Family and friends. • Location. Rural but village feel • The best thing would be the amazing :) • Ease of access to Belfast community • The countryside being so close.

36 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 37 • location with good means • Community. • It's nice and quiet, it has • It is very out dated and has few • Pot holes and disruptive youths • Absolutely this is the quality of public transport. a community spirit which facilities apart from shops. Most drinking in the streets of the roads and most importantly • Close to Belfast but still far you don't get in the city. of the roads are horrendous in the footpaths. More facilities • well i have been here 37yrs. enough away. • Roads It is convenient to the city. and around Ballygowan and shops I have seen many an increase • Feeling welcome when you walk • Parking in population. Mostly people • Mums and tots, play park, local • Road cleaning • Vandalism & destruction down the street. Always someone moving in from Belfast, due to the so know a lot of people • The state of the roads, traffic of property to chat to. • Enough room to walk on footpaths property prices being relatively management, footpaths, lack • Access to numerous • The quality of the shopping area cheaper than neighbouring • It's a rural, quiet area. • The grass is not cut regularly, of pedestrian crossings & parking motorways easily and the streets. Every footpath villages such as Saintfield/ lots of street lights are currently management are shocking. • Good access to all amenities. is wonky & covered in muck. Comber.etc. I have issues with • It used to be the community, out around the village, the village • No sense of community nor village traffic and the lack of any • Living more rural, but 15 minutes everyone knew each other and needs cleaned and tidied up, the • It's a drive through village with no life. All because of availability response from roads service from the town when I need it. other families. I suppose now the park is a mess lots of rubbish real centre. of shops and services to introduce traffic calming best thing is simply that it is out and spray paint around, the cage • Handy commute to Belfast • Public parking issues and shop measures. I also have issues “in the country” at the minute. in the back corner of the park is • Dog fouling especially on the and Ards. signage Dog poo with heavy quarry lorries passing a real eye sore not to mention brae is always bad other than • Small friendly village through, destroying roads leaving • Proximity to Belfast. the grass beside the park on the that I can’t think of anything • Restaurant would be nice, gift pot holes. • Small community Belfast Road which is never cut outstanding shop, Doctor, friendly pub, • Small enough shops to get library, exercise area indoors • Community spirit a more personal experience. • I'm not sure I could really say • Dog fouling • Run down and appears to and outdoors. there is something specific that be forgotten about in • Quiet village. • Proximity to local towns. • Public footpaths are in a poor is "the best". I enjoy living in development terms. • Very little makes it a desirable state • The dump is probably the most • Close to Belfast and other major Ballygowan as it is outside of place to go • The quarry lorries - village effective and useful thing in towns. Belfast • Car parking. Better bus service. in a complete mess! • Condition of the roads. Investment Ballygowan Decent broadband speed. • Easy commute. • Proximity to other towns and needed for community groups/ • No doctor or health facilities • The people. cities • Keeping communal areas tidy, youth centre and activities. • Reasonable variation of shops streets, estates etc. • Young people • House prices and pretty, friendly place to live. • Community • More plants and flowers • Run down, drab appearance of • Appearance • I feel it is generally a safe • It's quite and it's a lovely • Lack of hedge cutting on roads • Handy garage shop. overall village area. place to live Other shops good. community, village life is great • Updating of local amenities within • Not much for kids, only youth club • Lighting, paving etc urgently the village, parks, playing fields, • The local shops are fantastic • Near parents. Great bus route • Its small and friendly required improvement. village hall. • Ballygowan seems to be to Belfast. Great schools. • Quiet yet connected to local towns • Good commuting village a forgotten town when you look • Public transport also requires • The quarry lorries damaging and villages. • Convenient location to Belfast. at the work Comber etc gets. improvement. the roads. We pay rates too!! • Good community relations. • Only place I've ever lived • Dirt and get to road from quarry • Improve parking at the shops in • Village is a mess. Whole park vehicles the square. area and village hall not well • coming into the village • Doctors surgery needed. kept. Shopping facilities, toilets, Question 8: What is the key issue that needs to be addressed in Ballygowan? Pedestrian crossing on the clean parks and community • Dog fouling people should be If you have ideas on how this issue should be addressed please let us know. Comber Road for school children. areas, vandalism in parks, roads fined conditions, many houses but not • More litter/dog poo bins. • Quality of roads following Phoenix • Potholes and lack of bins • The village is very run down. • Better playpark area. enough services gas installations. In comparison to Comber and • Anti-social behaviour in the play • Roads are disgraceful in and out. Saintfield there are few shops • 4g football pitch to replace grass • The state of the village is • More facilities/ services park. Also dog fouling and the area is run down and I pitch on Moss Road. • The biggest issue would seem disgusting. Phoenix Gas have left to be the excessive heavy a terrible mess but the footpaths • A doctors surgery in the village • Roads slightly with no appealing shops • A bank in the village. through the village are an eyesore and something more for the / coffee shops. There needs to be vehicle traffic • Parking Maybe more clubs and stuff to do children to get them off the streets investment in the area to improve • Longer garage opening hours. • Underage drinking for children and the senior citizens • Footpaths it in order to draw in new investors • More done with green areas to • Def the roads are bad and very • The look of buildings, footpaths, and shops. tidy up the look of the village. • Parking in the village hard on the cars! Then the rubbish • Bus service to Belfast greenery and roads are in at the side of the roads • Dog fouling and pot holes • Parking and anti-social behaviour • Area of waste land beside the • Policing a terrible state • The village is looking tired. All of chemist • Run down areas are an eyesore • Speeding • footpaths - Very narrow • Flags being placed in areas where the roadworks we have endured the majority of people do not • The lorrys make so much mess • Playground could be improved and unsafe. through Phoenix Gas installation • Update the village want them, and where the people and dirt of the roads they need to and maintained better has destroyed the roads and • lacks community feel putting them up do not live. be covered to prevent this as the • Dog fouling pavements throughout the village. • We have to travel for leisure People living in the Forge signed village is also very dirty from it. • Increased bus service. Quality facilities eg no swimming pool • Poor shopping agreements not to put up flags of • More activities and facilities for of footpaths • Also nothing for teenagers to do close, restaurants, libraries, the youth particularly primary hanging about the streets. childcare and good schools. school children.

38 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 39 any nature so they should not be • The roads are in a terrible state • Anti-social behaviour • The footpaths and roads are • More for teenagers to do • Parking on the hill of the Brae. placed outside the development and grass cutting/maintenance an absolute disgrace!! • Nothing for teenagers to do. • Main issue for me is playpark - • Lack of activities for children as an advertisement or anything has gone downhill. • Underage drinking in the play park glass and rubbish. particularly primary level else as this is a mixed area and it • Poor walkway facilities • No fibre optic internet is available is unwanted by residents. • Parking of vehicles on corners • Doctors surgery needed. • Hedges & grasses cut. in the area • The speeding traffic through of streets obstructing views to • Roads around the village are the village is horrifying • The village looks so dreary and • More disability kerbs. • Dog poo never being lifted exit streets safely a disgrace they've dug them up run down. Traffic goes too fast. • Speeding. Trying to get out • More flowers & plants. that much • The road conditions. • People need to stop using the of the row of shops is nightmare • Road conditions. community centre car park as a • A better hall with multiple rooms • Improvement of roads and • No support for youth work. people definitely doing over park and ride • Road safety. so it can be better utilised. appearance of Ballygowan to 30mph. It looks rather dull. • Anti-social behaviour attract more residents A sort of nothing place u drive • Lack of bus service to Ards at • Speed bumps needed • 30mph speed limit sign at the top • Roads and footpaths. thru. Could do with a few weekends and public holidays of the Moss Road just past the • More facilities need to be provide • Areas to walk more flowers about it. Maybe church to the area especially for children. • We desperately need a doctors • Parking to access the shops community allotments? • Area around playing fields could surgery in Ballygowan. and play ground. • Footpaths, lighting, roads, grass • A homework and revision club and easily be developed for walking. • Parking and speeding through cutting, weed spraying and care of courses for all the community. • General upkeep and investment in • Better public transport and village especially at the • I also believe the asset of the our flower beds and roundabout the village. services. • A doctors surgery would be children's park river flowing through Ballygowan have not been taken care beneficial • Dog dirt • Totally inadequate parking. should be brought into the plan • Traffic calming • Litter • Roads and a decent chemist and • Litter on country roads • Moss Road football pitch • Lack of medical doctor services • Better facilities for youths • Zebra crossing at the roundabout in need of a few decent shops. not great. • Potholes are everywhere! Roads at all exits. • Better lighting • Hedges need tidied and town are not of a good standard in a lot needs a good tidy up. More dog of places! • Speeding through the village poo bins esp Moss Road • The kids need something to do. • On approach from any direction Question 9: Please respond to the following statements regarding the facilities and services • The kids park is good but it badly the place looks filthy and unkept. • Ballygowan is not very welcoming. available in Ballygowan… needs updating Footpaths sunk, full of puddles and road debris. 9.1 I am not aware of the range of services and facilities available in Ballygowan • Drug use, underage drinking, • The pavements are in terrible condition, uneven full of holes and anti-social behaviour!!! • New parks, pavements, brighter large puddles. happier village! New roads speed • No community spirit, becoming Strongly Agree 8.4% limits, maybe a speed camera! a satellite village. Condition of • There is no parking can't get parked to run into the shops or Agree 27.3% roads. Dog fouling in abundance. • Zero facilities in the area, chemist or even to the hairdresser Ballygowan is awful compared Neither agree/ 26.4% • Potholes • Very poor sporting provision in the to other villages and towns disagree • Unkempt grass and hedged areas area. This is particularly an issue in the area. Nothing has been Disagree 30.8% for young people and during the put into the village for decades, • Parking at the main shops. Strongly Disagree 7.1% winter months. no greenway, no cycle lanes, • The speed of hgv traffic during no 5-a-side pitches, not even Not Answered • A car park the week. a park large enough for a one • Nice flowers mile park run. 0% 70 people asked 100% • Better village hall which is open to public • Speeding and pot holes • More flowers and plants to brighten the place up. 9.2 I feel that there is sufficient information about the services and facilities available in Ballygowan • Better shops And a doctors • Volume of traffic using the village, surgery most concerning is the large • A community centre!! The village number of lorries now using hall is dated and unsuitable • State of roads, footpaths, Strongly Agree 4.4% the village frequently. Noise roads into • We need traffic calming measures Agree 27.3% starting very early at 6a.m. for boy racers and lorry drivers! • parking. most mornings! Neither agree/ 24.2% • Lack of bins for dog waste disagree • Public toilets. • Speeding cars and lorries and there needs to be a bus stop • Lack of lighting in the Comber Disagree 35.2% • Pavement/Pedestrian access Road Park between the Moss Road and the Strongly Disagree 8.4% • 1) Quality of infrastructure 2) Lack square. • Heavy goods traffic constantly of recreational facilities Not Answered 0.4% • Cleanliness. Appearance. Facilities. through the village roads • Better public transport. More are destroyed 0% 80 people asked 100% • There is no decent public bar facilities for teenagers. facilities in the town • Lack of doctors

40 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 41 9.3 I find accessing services in Ballygowan difficult and rarely use them Question 10: A number of issues that may affect the local area are listed below - please respond to each of the issues listed as to whether you feel it is of 'No Concern' , 'Some Concern' or 'Major Concern'.

Strongly Agree 9.3% Employment/Jobs Agree 29.5% Anti Social Behaviour Neither agree/ 33.9% disagree Social Isolation Disagree 23.4% Broadband Strongly Disagree 3.5% Litter & Dog Fouling Not Answered Education & Training Drug & Alcohol Abuse 0% 77 people asked 100% Facilities for Older People

9.4 I access and use community facilities or services on a weekly basis Facilities for Younger People Public Transport Village Appearance Strongly Agree 4.9% Community Safety Agree 22.9% Sport & Recreation Facilities Neither agree/ 22.9% disagree Community Facilities Disagree 32.6% Road Safety Strongly Disagree 16.3% Housing Issues Not Answered 0.4% Access to Services

0% 74 people asked 100% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 9.5 Services and facilities in Ballygowan are reflective of local needs Major Concern Some Concern No Concern

Strongly Agree 4.9% Question 11: Please consider the following list and RANK IN ORDER OF PRIORITY with 1 being the MOST important Agree 15.9% issue you feel should be addressed through to 7, which is the LEAST important issues to address for Neither agree/ 32.3% Ballygowan. disagree High Disagree 30.4% Facilities for Younger People priority Strongly Disagree 16.3% Not Answered 0.4% Road Safety / Traffic Management 0% 73 people asked 100%

9.6 I feel community facilities are of a high standard and meet local needs Community Facilities

Strongly Agree 1.3% Village Appearance Agree 8.4% Neither agree/ 37.4% disagree Sports and Leisure Facilities Disagree 31.3% Strongly Disagree 21.6% Not Answered Additional Shops / Business Units

0% 85 people asked 100% Low Tourism and Heritage Services priority

42 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 43 Question 12: In terms of community services, programmes or activities please mark the ones that you feel should Question 13: Are there any other needs, issues or actions you would like to highlight or feel should be prioritised for Ballygowan. Please select a maximum of 3. be prioritised for Ballygowan

• The dog fouling in Ballygowan is compared to here. Such a shame. • The cutting or grass in front of Advice services ridiculous. Also a growing concern The Christmas tree is awful every park on verge of footpath needs for Residents / is the number of inconsiderate single year. to be looked at more regular Community Issues drivers parking up on pavements • Footpaths • The extreme over use of Adult Education, inhibiting people with wheelchairs paramilitary and union flags in training or and pushchairs with young • Speeding through the village and Ballygowan, particularly in July employment children often having to walk the need for more housing lower the tone of the village and along the road Activities for • Community hub are used to intimidate residents. It Older People • There needs to be outcomes as lowers the tone of the village and • Speed bumps on the Belfast Road Health and a result of this survey otherwise makes it look like an undesirable Wellbeing Activities the community will become • Paths need cleaned on Belfast place to live or visit. disillusioned even further. Action Road Community • Parking for businesses and those is required. Events • Trees and hedges kept neater using public transport. • More buses into Belfast on Friday Road Safety • Overall look of Ballygowan- and Saturday nights and home • Traffic control is terrible Initiatives hanging baskets, benches • General appearance of the local • Childrens play park always being around town etc. maybe an art Sport and vandalised. Recreation Facilities area and drawing in new shops piece or symbol that represents and facilities. • Make the village look nice! It is so Ballygowan in middle of Traffic Management roundabout. Issues • No doctor surgery in this area and depressing! it was a very poor service when it • Outdoor gym area Activities for • What about a park and ride - was here Young People utilising the bus services. • There needs to be more facilities Appearance of • General safety of the village • Village hall playground could be in the local park for wheelchair users the local area • Improve village appearance updated. • Definitely feel that Ballygowan 0% 100% • Improve transport links and • Doctors surgery. would greatly benefit from fitness regularity • The local use of the playing fields Figure 3: Programmes, activities and service priorities facilities. • Sports and leisure facilities by young people drinking and destroying the grass with their • Also feel that in rural areas that • Facilities for residents - all ages scrambler bikes there should be more lighting. • Simply the village is tired. A few • The football pitch that Ballygowan • Sport and recreation area would pot plants and the odd collection FC PLAYED on down Moss Road is be good. Especially for kids. of refuse is not going to do a disgrace. It would be amazing if • Perhaps could have a public first anything. a 4g full size pitch was put there aid course in the village hall. you could have football sessions • The quarry lorries for the kids, training and matches • Vandalism of playgrounds • Health Centre for other teams as well • Ballygowan is in desperate need • No support for the local • Roads need fixed asap more dog of work to fix its appearance. Ballygowan youth club bins in the village • The bus service is appalling and • I love a regular bus route to • Doctor surgery needs to be addressed. Saintfield/Crossgar/Downpatrick • The state of Ballygowan has been • Public toilets are needed. other than the school bus. Also ongoing for over 30 years. would love a foot path to Comber • Better lighting. so we could hook up with the • Parking • Extension needed for village hall. Greenway • Public toilets • Inadequate car parking in the • Safer dog parks n bins for waste • Signage village. • Vandalism to the play park is • Moss Road football pitch isn't continuous, littering also here. • A new community hall. great. • Lack of beauty to the village. • Pot holes Look at Comber and Saintfield • The dog litter is terrible.

44 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 45 Question 14: Please make any additional comments that you feel would help to develop a village plan APPENDIX B - TRACKING AND MONITORING TEMPLATE for Ballygowan

• Feedback on the actions taken • Nothing is ever done same old • The village hall is quite small and OUTCOME 1: BALLYGOWAN ACHIEVING ITS FULL POTENTIAL as a result of this survey needs same old. the car park fills up very quickly if to be published and visible to the there is something on. • Pedestrian access to Comber, Update on Actions/Outputs community. Outcome Action Output/Indicator(s) Status Saintfield, Moneyreagh. • Daycare facility might do well. (date) • The potential is evident when you Maybe classes in the hall for new • When addressing any activity for look at Saintfield and Comber mothers for support. the various age groups to get their • Complete needs assessment Completed needs assessment with older people / men. with 112 older people (including • I would like to use public transport opinion on what they would like. • The village population Provision of services aimed at Community 47 men) providing views (Nov 18) Ongoing supporting engagement and • At least one new programme to travel to work however the bus Without their insight and feedback has increased resulting in Engagement (on track) inclusion of older people and for older people ‘Good Morning Service’ service is so irregular this is not a the initiative is more likely to fail. infrastructure problems. (EXAMPLE) specifically older men established and running for practical option. • At least one new programme two months. Work underway to • Stop building more houses • The village is a commuter bypass for older men establish ‘mens shed’ (Dec 18) • Better parking around the centre now for Belfast bound traffic. We • Parking for access to local of the village. need a bypass. businesses FREE OF CHARGE 1.1.1 Development of community • There should be an area such as to encourage their growth and • Ballygowan would benefit from activities and programmes for a 3G training pitch where young therefore jobs. Would also help a health centre. Ballygowan’s young people people can keep fit. with people taking buses to work population has grown over this etc past few years with the new • The traffic issues should be looked 1.1.2 Community education developments being built. at, such as speeding through the • When the village plan is finalised, programmes village. there needs to be actions taken • The village is completely neglected 1.1 to ensure that it is actually • The quarry should be forced to • The two main priorities currently I Community 1.1.3 Outreach of key services implemented. Engagement clean the muck off the roads and feel are condition of the footpath and Services the footpaths. • Prioritise road safety. and extreme lack of car parking. 1.1.4 Community food project Health provision is also a major • The grass verges need to be cut • We need action. We need issue for residents. more often and flowers would community involvement. The 1.1.5 Community events brighten the village up. Community Association does not • More information about what’s have the impetus to carry this on and when. Maybe a few • Ballygowan is looking rundown 1.1.6 Ballygowan community forward. community notice boards or a and neglected! website newsletter to let parents know • Create a group that will spearhead • Definite traffic calming required. what’s on for children and this change. themselves. 1.2 • Possibility of a community Community 1.2.1 Development of village hall • Create a website that is dedicated newsletter?? • Space to this venture allowing feedback, • The village appearance is grey, comments, ideas etc. • More visibility of local Councillors. shabby and neglected looking. I • More information on meetings etc, • Bring businesses and jobs to the feel local council has forgotten or community events area - this would make traffic OUTCOME 2: A HEALTHY AND ACTIVE BALLYGOWAN our village. management a higher priority • We need nice communal areas than it is now. Outcome Action Output/Indicator(s) Update on Actions/Outputs (date) Status

2.1 Health and 2.1.1 Feasibility study – community wellbeing health hub services

2.2.1 Feasibility study – recreational facilities at sports pitch site on Moss Road

2.2.2 Playing surface and facilities 2.2 at the sports pitch on Moss Road Sports and Recreation Facilities 2.2.3 Walking trails and cycle paths

2.2.4 Information on walking trails and signage to provide village information

46 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 47 OUTCOME 3: A CONNECTED, SECURE AND SAFE BALLYGOWAN OUTCOME 4: SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY AND EMPLOYMENT IN BALLYGOWAN

Update on Actions/Outputs Update on Actions/Outputs Outcome Action Output/Indicator(s) Status Outcome Action Output/Indicator(s) Status (date) (date)

3.1.1 Road safety and traffic 4.1.1 Develop a local traders calming measures forum in Ballygowan 3.1 Road 4.1 Safety Support and Traffic 3.1.2 Identify options for Local 4.1.2 Employment and skills Calming to address impact caused Business development by the high volume of lorries and passing through village Economy 4.1.3 Local apprenticeship/work experience scheme 3.2.1 Additional car parking within village

3.2 3.2.2 Time-restricted parking OUTCOME 5: SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ENVIRONMENT, HISTORY AND HERITAGE IN BALLYGOWAN Car Parking along Main Street

Update on Actions/Outputs Outcome Action Output/Indicator(s) Status 3.2.3 Park and ride/park (date) and share

5.1.1 Environmental Improvement 3.3.1 Resurfacing of minor, schemes/public realm access and connecting roads

5.1.2 Provision of gateway 3.3.2 Improve the quality, surface signage and maintenance 3.3 of footpaths Improved 5.1.3 Signature art piece/ Roads and 5.1 sculpture at roundabout Access Improved 3.3.3 Reinstatement work Village by utility companies Appearance 5.1.4 Dog fouling and littering 3.3.4 Improved public transport provision 5.1.5 Floral display and planting

3.4.1 Address anti-social behaviour and low-level crime 3.4 5.1.6 Village hall – green space Community and play facilities Safety 3.4.2 Address fear of crime 5.2 Tourism and 5.2.1 Promotion of key village Promotion assets and attractions of ‘Local Assets’

48 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 49 Notes Notes

50 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023 51 Ards and North Down Borough Council Town Hall, The Castle, Bangor, BT20 4BT T: 0300 013 3333 E: [email protected] The Council extends its thanks to all who have contributed to this plan and looks forward to continued collaboration through the course of its delivery. If you would like any more information about this plan or how to get involved please get in touch.

This project was part-funded under Priority 6 (LEADER) of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the European Union 52 BALLYGOWAN Integrated Village Plan 2018-2023