Derry & Strabane Green Infrastructure Plan 2019

Derry & Strabane Green Infrastructure Plan 2019 – 2032: Public Consultation Report

Contents

1. Executive Summary

2. Introduction 2.1 Background 2.2 The consultation 2.3 Overview of responses

3. Question response analysis & discussion 3.1 People & Place 3.2 Economic Prosperity 3.3 Biodiversity 3.4 Climate Change 3.5 Communication and Engagement 3.6 Health and Wellbeing 3.7 Natural Capital 3.8 Further Engagement 3.9 Further Comments

4. Conclusion

Appendix

Acknowledgements Derry City & Strabane District Council would like to thank all of the individuals and organisations who took the time to consider and respond to this consultation.

1. Executive Summary

Derry City & Strabane District Council and the Green Infrastructure Stakeholder Group developed a Green Infrastructure Plan 2019-2032. The Green Infrastructure (GI) Plan was launched for public consultation on 12th March 2019, for an eight-week period, ending on the 3rd May 2019.

Two public consultation events were held, one in the Guildhall and one in the Alley Theatre in Strabane in March 2019. There were 30 written responses to the consultation. Also, 25 people attended the consultation events. Overall, there was a satisfactory level of engagement with the consultation process and we are grateful to all those who took the time to participate.

This report summarises the response to the public consultation and provides a record of comments submitted to the Council.

Following the completion of the public consultation process, we will update the GI Plan 2019-2032 and associated GI Action Plan.

2. Introduction

Derry City & Strabane District Council has undertaken an analysis of the responses to the, ‘Derry & Strabane Green Infrastructure Plan 2019-2032’, public consultation. It sought views from stakeholders and interested parties on the draft Green Infrastructure (GI) Plan for the District.

2.1 Background GI is an interconnected network of multi-functional natural and semi-natural areas, which provide multiple environmental, economic and social benefits. It is mostly comprised of countryside, parks, natural habitats, allotments & green links (river corridors, pedestrian & cycle routes). These spaces provide a mix of functions including recreation, sustainable transport, education, wildlife habitat, flood risk management, local food production, energy production and ecosystem services. Council approved the development of a Green Infrastructure Plan in May 2017, which would contribute to the Local Development Plan 2032. Subsequently, a GI Stakeholder Group was established in September 2017, to develop the Derry & Strabane GI Framework and associated GI Plan. The GI Stakeholder Group comprises members from the public, private and community sector. Council worked in partnership with the GI Stakeholder Group (Appendix 1) to develop a Derry & Strabane GI Framework (Derry City & Strabane District Council, 2018) in 2018, which is a road map for the development of a GI Plan. Subsequently, the draft GI Plan 2019-2032 (Derry City & Strabane District Council, 2019) was approved by Council and the Strategic Growth Plan Partnership (Community Plan) in February 2019. The GI Plan outlines the four key strategic themes and reflects the linkages between the Strategic Growth Plan and the Local Development Plan 2032 as follows:  People & Place;  Economic Prosperity;  Biodiversity; &  Climate Change.

Council have developed a draft GI Action Plan, which will be the delivery mechanism for the GI plan. Therefore, Derry City & Strabane District Council was seeking views on their draft GI Plan 2019-2032.

2.2 The consultation The GI Plan public consultation was designed to obtain the views of stakeholders, organisations and individuals to help inform the draft Derry & Strabane GI Plan. Derry City & Strabane District Council designed the consultation in collaboration with an advisory group consisting of key stakeholders. The consultation paper posed 16 questions in relation to the overall key strategic themes and cross cutting themes (Appendix 2). The consultation process was open for an eight-week period, from 12th March to 3rd May 2019. The public consultation was launched at Council’s first GI & Climate Change Conference on 12th March 2019 at the Guildhall, Derry. There were 150 participants at the event. The public consultation was published on Council’s website, with public adverts placed in the local press. Two public consultation events were held on Wednesday 20th March at the Guildhall (Derry) and Thursday 21st March at the Alley Theatre (Strabane) from 1pm to 8pm. Interested parties could submit responses online (www.derrystrabane.com/GI) through a citizen space survey, by email or by post.

2.3 Overview of responses A total of 25 people attended the two public consultation events and 30 people provided written responses to the draft GI Plan. The respondents were divided into the following categories:

 10 from personal responses;  7 from public bodies;  6 from community groups;  4 from businesses;  2 from education sector; &  1 from a recreational group.

Of the 30 written responses received:  22 responded via the online consultation form; &  8 responded by email.

Consideration was given to the full responses and the individual comments. These have been grouped together according to our assessment of their relevance to the questions asked in the consultation document (Section 3 and Appendix 3).

Many of the comments refer to detailed GI potential actions and are too detailed to have a material influence on the determination of the GI Plan network at a high level set out in the consultation. However, these comments will be taken into consideration when revising the draft GI Action Plan.

3. Question response analysis & discussion

Outlined below are the four Key Strategic Themes and three Cross Cutting Theme responses from the public consultation.

3.1 People & Place Overall, there were 22 responses to the consultation that referenced the Key Strategic Theme, ‘People & Place’. Outlined below is a summary of the responses, sub-divided into the three priority themes (green & blue spaces; play provision; & greenways).

3.1.1 Green & blue spaces Overall, there were 10 responses to this priority, which are summarised below:

Green spaces:  ‘Invest in additional sensory gardens and outdoor classrooms’.  ‘Exercise area for children and adults. Dog Parks to let dogs of the lead. Park run area’.  ‘A park in Strabane which is like St Columbs in Derry. Equipped with play equipment walks and just Green space.’  ‘Extend Green Flag for city's long standing Green Infrastructure Best Practice example - Creggan Country Park’.  ‘Implement green spaces that serve a functional purpose to better manage our rainwater (i.e. fully functional SuDS schemes) as well as allowing various ecosystems to thrive’.  ‘A Sustainable Drainage Policy including a quota and adoption strategies’.  ‘I don't agree with bonfires but if both communities are doing them, perhaps a designated area could be created away from our street-scapes and nice surfacing to ensure our infrastructure isn't compromised. It might be an interface zone where both communities can share and use the same bonfire zone. This acts as a pull away from the nice surfacing to protect it’.  ‘Ebrington Area is not being utilised in the most effective way, it currently is just a large concrete space, this also could be utilised by programmes for groups dealing with health (mental) and wellbeing. Building greenhouses and mini orchards’.  ‘Provide clean safe spaces for teens including skate parks and safe zones’.  ‘On page 71 - can you change reference to ‘Magee University Campus to ‘Ulster University Magee Campus’.

Respondents have highlighted suggested improvements to greenspaces. Outlined below is a discussion of these suggestions:  There are a number of sensory gardens and outdoor classrooms provided in a number of local schools. Also, there are a number of outdoor classrooms within our partner organisations, which schools and the public can avail of, for example, The Playtrail, Loughs Agency and Creggan Country Park.  Council are currently reviewing ‘Dog Control Orders’, which will be open for a public consultation later this year, with options for areas where dogs will be able to be let off their leads.  Park runs are currently available in a number of Council owned greenspaces, for example, St Columb’s Park.  Council have recently announced the E9 m Riverine project, which will provide greenspace provision for Strabane town and the surrounding area.  Council are reviewing the potential of a SUDS policy, under the formulation of Council’s Climate Adaptation Plan and new planning policies under the Local Development Plan 2032.  Bonfire sites are beyond the scope of the GI Plan.  Council have obtained planning permission for the development of Acorn Farm in St Columb’s Park, opposite Ebrington, which will offer food growing facilities and programmes to improve health and wellbeing.  We will consider the merit of a skate park when reviewing our greenspaces.  The Magee reference will be updated.

Blue spaces:  ‘River Foyle… is identified negatively throughout the city and beyond as the 'Suicide' option…this needs to change and should be used as part of the council plan to place a positive spin on it. Surely there are innovative ways of creating and using the river to develop power, and getting mental health groups involved in this to help build and take pride rather than seeing it as a place to end their lives.’  ‘I love the canal tow path walk but it is in terrible condition. At the Foyle mouth, it is currently disgusting. This is a great asset in terms of GI and it currently makes much of the GI draft plan look like dribble and dreams. This area has so much potential if vision could transform MCKeans to a country park. It would bring people to the area from Strabane and Derry. Harkins Bar bought over you’d have a nice country pub serving coffee tea scones dinners etc. after a beautiful walk along the canal. Previous plans were to link these roads to the canal. What happened?’  ‘Link with the Our Future Foyle Project’.  ‘Access to the river is difficult in all parts of the city area. It is the biggest open space. It is very underused. It could be the single biggest watermark connecting Derry, Strabane and the cross border towns and villages from Lifford, St Johnston, Carrigans and the towns along Lough Foyle’.

 ‘Lough Foyle is a RAMSAR site but there is no ready access or development for the public to use! The railway being the main barrier?’

It is clear that respondents support the development of blue spaces. Outlined below is a discussion of the responses:  The ‘Future Foyle’ Project that is led by the Public Health Agency in partnership with Council, aims to address the negative association with the River Foyle.  We have developed plans to upgrade the Strabane Canal path and the long-term aim is to connect it to the wider greenway network proposals, as outlined in the GI Plan on page 31.  The EU Interreg E9m Riverine Project in Strabane will improve access to the river at Strabane & Lifford.  We are developing the Strahfoyle Greenway, which will offer improved access along Lough Foyle. Current access to Lough Foyle is available at the Culmore Point slipway, or via the River Foyle at Prehen or along the Quay.

3.1.2 Play provision Overall, there were five responses to this priority, which are summarised below:  ‘Develop quality play provision that includes Disability Play Provision Equipment'.  ‘Greener areas around the play park…entirely tarmacced’.  ‘I understand the provision of commissioning new play areas for children, however, I believe turning potential green belts into play areas can be more harmful than good, in particular in areas where the population are elderly. It would be better served by developing these areas by creating mini orchards’.  ‘Play park has not been updated in years … equipment is unsafe …blocked off for years. All the money seems to be spent in the city areas. Please fix the paths in the Country Park and update the play equipment for our children making it a safer place to walk and play’.  ‘Ballymagorry has no play facilities. Article 31 of UN CoR would suggest you are bound to provide “safe, accessible and inclusive spaces for play and socialisation. The park in Artigarvan would suffice both areas however access is somewhat restricted due to being unsafe to walk on’.

The most popular response stated that we should review our play provision. We are currently reviewing our 84 play provision sites as part of a Play Plan, which will examine current and future play provision within the District. There are a number of Disability Play Provision Equipment sites within the District, for example, at the Playtrail and Brooke Park. Also, play provision development will be in line with the LDP 2032, which will comply with the natural environment and open space policies.

3.1.3 Greenways Overall, there were 14 response to this priority, which are summarised below:

 ‘Greenway needs to ensure that the route does not damage biodiversity, current nature reserves and does not contribute to further habitat loss’.  ‘Build the Strathfoyle Greenway. It can't only be about the cross border Greenways. Planning permission for the Strathfoyle Greenway has been in place since 2012. It will go some way in helping to combat the worst effects of rural isolation and social exclusion. Improve access and promotion and conservation of Enagh Lough’.  ‘Repair the foot bridge at Muff Glen Forest and promote the forest for countryside recreation’.  ‘Develop river pathway along banks of Faughan’.  ‘Core city spaces are jammed with cars. If it were possible to implement more roman style 'no kerbs' shared transport areas and raised table nice surfacing, it might encourage pedestrians and cyclists to reclaim the street scapes. The less car spaces there is, people are forced to use public transport or sustainable forms of transport’.  ‘Cycle paths suitable for children’.  ‘Connectivity between City side and Waterside Derry. The EU Interreg cross border greenway project, connecting the district with Muff, Buncrana and Lifford, all speak to connectivity and mobility west of the River Foyle? What of connections to/within the East side, particularly to Waterside Derry, given the ongoing NW Multimodal Transportation Hub?’  ‘I have used the cycle paths in the past and the paths outside of the area of the peace bridge are not as well maintained with broken glass and unsafe lighting. Also I found it difficult to find a safe place to park my bike in the town’.  ‘Walking trails. Need to be improved. Much of the focus is on constructing greenways, which is beneficial to everyone in the district if they can travel to use them. They also take considerable time to build. It’s a bit like riding a bike before you can walk. We don’t have suitable walking facilities connecting rural areas to the city or Strabane. Examples of this are Artigarvan and Maghermason. There is no safe walking footpath to either of these villages from Strabane or Derry. It’s 1.4 miles from the end of the footpath in Artigarvan to the start at Ballymagorry yet it one of the unsafest environments I’ve walked / ran on. Consideration should be given to connect villages in a reasonable distance to the towns. Even cutting the grass verge would be helpful in some locations perhaps with a dusting of hard-core’.  ‘Start looking at provision of trails i.e. old railway line Strabane to Derry much of which Country park at MCKeans Moss Ness woods is also assi accessible via the bridge to nowhere currently at Strabane canal where it joins the Foyle. Sort out Strabane Canal. Update the “highway to health” it’s a bit dated and not particularly healthy breathing in fumes. People need to be more informed of access to land i.e. all the laneways running between the old canal and the Foyle’.  ‘Provision of Park and Ride locations with opportunities for maximising functions.’

 ‘Old rail line Strabane to Omagh trail. Strabane glen assi potential trail?... perhaps on the outside of the glen as the view is amazing out over Foyle valley. Riverine. Faughan valley trail up the valley to join the Strabane to Derry old rail line trail. Strabane to Donegal town trail…amazing tourism potentials!’  ‘Scope electric bike scheme’.  ‘You define greenways as, ‘sustainable travel corridors, which can be shared use or segregated walking & cycling infrastructure’. I think this might confuse people, particularly those who have international experience of using greenways…Waterford or Great Western greenways.’

A number of responses were in relation to specific GI actions, which will be considered during the revision of the GI Action Plan. Outlined below is a discussion of the responses.

 The Derry & Strabane Local Development Plan (LDP) 2032 will include revised planning policies (to include the open space and natural environment) in relation to the natural environment and public realm, which will address the concerns highlighted above.  The Strathfoyle Greenway is progressing. We are currently liaising with landowners to secure the land to develop the greenway and working to secure funding to construct the greenway extension to Strathfoyle.  Council provided a consultation response to Forest Service’s forest proposals and requested that the connection at Muff Glen be reviewed to improve connectivity within the site.  A planning application has been submitted to develop a greenway along the River Faughan at Drumahoe. There is currently walking trail provision along the River Faughan, for example, Oaks Wood, Claudy Country Park and Learmount Forest. Also, we are working in partnership with the Woodland Trust on their Faughan Valley Treescape Project, which includes access improvements.  The GI Plan is an overarching document. The associated GI Action Plan outlines the detailed specific projects that will be delivered over the short, medium and long-term. The EU Interregg Cross Border greenway project is part of the wider North West Greenway Plan (Derry City & Strabane District Council, 2015), which outlines the wider greenway strategy. The GI Plan indicates our wider greenway provision for the District to 2032 on page 31, showing our aspirations to link the Cityside to the wider District. For example, there is greenway access provision from the Foyle Bridge to Ebrington, with current construction to extend the greenway from Ebrington to the new Multi-modal Transport Hub and to the Craigavon Bridge, which will connect the city on the east and west bank with the three bridges. The long-term vision is to assist with delivering the Department for Infrastructure’s (2016) A Strategic Plan for Greenways: Exercise, Explore, Enjoy, to utilise the former railway network, extending the current greenway provision from the Craigavon Bridge to New Buildings and to extend this to the current Strabane Canal path, which will be upgraded, to Strabane

and towards Sion Mills. Also, with the A6 Dualling project, there is potential to utilise land to develop a greenway along this corridor.  New walking and cycling provision will be created with the Riverine project in Strabane.  There are a number of existing park and ride provision sites and DFI will review provision.  Council have developed an online cycle provision map and are currently working in partnership with DFI, to increase the number of safe cycle parking locations in Derry and Strabane. The LDP 2032 will review vehicular dominance and high quality public space.  Legislation is required to allow the operation of an electric bike scheme.  The greenway definition is in line with that of the Department for Infrastructure, in their A Strategic Plan for Greenways: Exercise, Explore, Enjoy (Department for Infrastructure, 2016).

3.2 Economic Prosperity Overall, there were 13 responses to the consultation that referenced the Key Strategic Theme, ‘Economic Prosperity’. Outlined below is a summary of the responses, subdivided into the priority themes (regeneration; tourism; & circular food economy).

3.2.1 Regeneration There were two comments in relation to this priority, which are summarised below:

 ‘We cannot have infinite growth on a finite planet. It is incredible that economic growth still features. We need degrowth with just transitions. Systems change. Our prosperity is using 3 planets’.  ‘Economic prosperity / regeneration would seem to be limited substantially by interconnectivity of the city/region on either side of the Foyle. Those on the West side seem to stand to benefit primarily from these GI proposals, but those to the East (including the rest of Northern Ireland) would seem to still face challenges in easily accessing the West side (improvements) in either a "green way" - i.e. without resort to cars - or a very convenient way - ie. constrained by very limited public transit and pedestrian river crossings.’

Based on the comments in this section, some additional information will be provided to highlight the UN Sustainability Goals and sustainable development, which is linked to the Derry & Strabane Strategic Growth Plan (Derry City & Strabane District Council, 2017) three pillars of economic, social and environment. As outlined above, the GI Plan is an overarching document. The associated GI Action Plan outlines the

detailed specific projects, which will be delivered over the short, medium and long- term. To address this, the GI Plan will be labelled Part 1 and the GI Action Plan will be labelled Part 2. Also, we will insert a paragraph explaining this in further detail. In addition, we will list potential GI actions under each of the Key Strategic Themes, one for the Cityside, Waterside and rural areas where it is relevant, to ensure that these potential actions are indicated as widespread throughout the District.

As outlined in the previous section, there are three pedestrian bridges, linking the east and west banks of the city with greenway provision. This is highlighted in our greenway map on page 31 of the GI Plan. Also, there is a free bus service linking the bus station on the Cityside of the river to the railway station on the Waterside of the City. The wider transport network is beyond the remit of the plan and the comments will be passed to the Strategic Growth Partnership to review under the Community Plan.

3.2.2 Tourism There was one comment in relation to this priority, which is outlined below:  ‘Other Cities with multiuser watersports promote employment through support services such as engineering/ maintenance and the tourist trade’.

The respondent highlighted the positive economic benefits of a Blue Way for tourism development.

3.2.3 Circular food economy There were seven responses to this priority, which are summarised below:

 ‘Need many more trees and hedgerows in parks which are edibles. Planting tubs in city centres need to be food and wild flowers. Incorporate permaculture into your planning and processes’.  ‘Develop and increase community allotment provision across the city and district and scope opportunities for allotments within the rural Faughan DEA’.  ‘Clady, needs community allotments, healthy green spaces, right of way access to the previous allotment area between Rabstiwn road and Donowen Park. No road access but grounds still there…or allocated council area that hasn't been developed yet’.  ‘Could we have more allotments? …local food businesses want to use them, if there is a business managing them, there might be more desire to maintain them, themselves rather dependency on the council? We have a massive car park in what used to be the Bishop's garden within the walls, could that become an economic garden again’.

 ‘Can you please consider adding community growing themes?’  ‘Permaculture planting for future provisions of fruit, veg and healthy eating programmes’.  ‘West Tyrone Gardner's group… could do more if we had the space to grow with our own grounds’.

The responses were positive to this priority. Council are currently reviewing food- growing provision throughout the District as part of the LDP process. We have secured planning permission for food growing provision and training at St Columbs Park. Also, we aim to develop a Food Strategy for the District. This will include identifying sites for edible planting in our greenspaces.

3.3 Biodiversity Overall, there were 14 responses to the consultation that referenced the Key Strategic Theme, ‘Biodiversity’. Outlined below is a summary of the responses, subdivided into the priority themes (habitat loss & fragmentation; invasive alien species; and improve water & air quality).

3.2.4 Habitat loss & fragmentation A summary of the responses are outlined below:  ‘Wild areas need to be incorporated into parks’.  ‘Protect Prehen Woods and promote it for outdoor recreation and educational purposes’.  ‘Wildlife corridors needed. Hedgerows wherever there's a fence Herb boxes and wildflowers everywhere. Less neat and tidy verges’.  ‘Plant native woodlands. Improve access and bio diversity at Enagh Lough’.  ‘Instead of minimise - halt habitat loss and fragmentation and minimise where possible’.  ‘Raising awareness is wonderful, but everyone seems to be raising awareness, hoping someone else will do something about it’.  ‘Co-design and management including auditing and evaluation to develop an inclusive action plan’.  ‘Insure that our natural habitats and areas are managed in such a way that ensures the natural parks and walkways are maintained and made safe for our children at the same time preserved so they will be there for future generations’.

 ‘Cut the grass less in public spaces and encourage those with gardens to cut the grass less and have wildlife friendly gardens. Also install and manage bee hives for the city.’  ‘Plant more trees. Designate local authority land where trees can be planted and plant them. Several key walking trail routes should be established with hedging. This will aid recovery of some bird species.’  ‘Even though the woodland coverage (11,651 ha, or 9.4%) in the District is higher than the NI average, the GI plan could make a stronger case for afforestation to increase the area of woodland to more closely approach the national target of 12%. This would be equivalent to a further 3,300 ha of woodland.’  ‘Forest Service would suggest that Council gives consideration to undertaking an inventory of the woodland it manages, including woodland type, species, composition, and age structure…to plan to increase the diversity and resilience of its forest resource.’  ‘Plan identifies an opportunity to, ‘build on existing TPO provision to ensure protection of existing tree and woodland,’ more prominence could be given to statements relating to enhancing protection of woodlands from removal, particularly in the course of development.’  ‘The GI Plan refers to commercial plantations as one of the number of factors leading to habitat loss. Forest Service acknowledges that this mainly refers to the large contiguous area of Slievedoo and Glenderg Forests, which were established on a large expanse of upland blanket bog…during 1960 to 1990.Forest Service was instrumental in settling aside areas as nature reserves that would eventually become designated as ASSI & subsequently SAC. Consequently, it could equally be said that commercial forestry has also facilitated the conservation of valuable habitats. Forest Service forests each have design plans that aim, to restore habitat networks as plantations become harvested and forests are regenerated…the existing areas of commercial forestry have produced many thousands of tonnes of timber and have contributed significantly to the economy in terms of value and employment.’  ‘With regard to peatlands per se, it would be helpful if the GI Plan could indicate that the large scale afforestation of peatlands ceased a number of decades ago.’  ‘Lack of recognition of the biodiversity / conservation / historical status within the complex of Kettle Hole Lakes (Enagh east & west), ponds and Wetlands at Enagh Lough and the mature woodlands in the Gransha Hospital. The Woods are already a major recreational / biodiversity resource… used widely by the public and for other recreational pursuits.’  ‘The development of the large housing area at Ballyowen will put more population pressure on these resources…will deprive the lakes of groundwater recharge with the hard surface drainage going to storm drains and not to the water table.’

Several responses proposed recommendations to improve biodiversity. A discussion of these suggestions are outlined below.

 Under the GI Action Plan, Council aims to review the management of its greenspaces and grass cutting regimes. This will include the development of a Tree Management System to manage Council owned trees. Council have a Biodiversity Duty under the Wildlife & Natural Environment Act 2011, to ‘further the conservation of Biodiversity’. This is implemented by managing our sites for biodiversity. For example, we have created a civic apiary for bees at Brooke Park. Also, we have worked in partnership with the Public Health Agency, under the ‘Life Project’, to issue a free tree to everyone that is born or married in the District. If individuals choose not to plant the tree themselves, it is planted as part of a woodland on Council owned greenspaces.  Prehen Wood is owned and managed by the Woodland Trust. Also, Enagh Lough is owned and managed by several private landowners. As outlined earlier, the GI Plan is an overarching document and is unable to select every natural heritage feature for discussion in the Plan. The Department for Agriculture, Environment & Rural Affairs (DAERA) are responsible for designating sites in Northern Ireland, based on UK selection criteria. The GI Plan appendix references all designated natural heritage sites by DAERA.  The GI Plan aims to improve connectivity, to include wildlife corridors between greenspaces.  The GI Plan and LDP 2032 aim to minimise the loss of habitats and fragmentation. This will be achieved through the updated planning policies to include the development principles, natural environment and open space policies. To halt the loss is difficult to achieve, as there will be occasions when infrastructure, for example, road networks, will lead to loss of habitats, where compensation will be required to offset the loss. We are unable to comment on individual planning applications and comments in relation to a planning application should be submitted to Planning Service to review as part of the planning process.  Enagh Lough is owned and managed by several private landowners. As it is not in public ownership, this action will not be listed, as it may not be able to be achieved as a SMART (Specific, Measureable, Achievable, Realistic and Time Specific) action by the GI Stakeholders.  The GI Plan and associated GI action plan is co-designed and managed by the GI Stakeholders listed in Appendix 2. The action plan will be audited and evaluated annually against the actions that are listed in the short, medium and long-term.  The GI Stakeholders aim to increase the percentage of woodland within the District. However, an additional 3,300 ha of woodland over the next 13 years is considered an unrealistic smart target to achieve, as it would depend on private landowners / farmers planting large areas of agricultural land. We will review a realistic target as part of the revision of the GI Action Plan. The LDP 2032 will outline proposals for increasing tree planting.  We will review the section on the impact of commercial forests and peatlands, to reflect the comments.

3.2.5 Invasive alien species There were three comments in relation to this priority, which are summarised below:

 ‘Japanese knotweed is used as a treatment for Lymes. Both increasing with climate change. Attempts to eradicate are futile. Poisoning our potential medicine is short sighted.’  ‘Forest Service Plant Health Directorate would also welcome the opportunity to engage in collaboration and partnership with DCSDC for the purposes of plant health monitoring and surveillance in both rural and urban areas. Promotion of the use of the Treecheck plant health reporting tool by Council employees, residents and volunteers would be proactively supported by Plant Health Inspection Branch.’  ‘We welcome the control of invasive exotics particularly the dangerous giant hogweed.’

Japanese knotweed & Giant hogweed are listed as invasive alien species under the Wildlife Order (NI) 1985 & the Wildlife & Natural Environment Act (2011). Therefore, Council has a Biodiversity Duty to control it on their land, to prevent its further spread. Japanese knotweed needs to be grown in a laboratory controlled setting for commercial use. We would welcome the opportunity to collaborate with the Forest Service’s Plant Health Directorate on plant health monitoring and surveillance. Also, the LDP 2032 will consider reviewing the management of these species.

3.2.6 Improve air & water quality Overall, there were four responses to this priority, which are summarised below:

 ‘Adopt a 'Rights of Nature' approach to protect the River Faughan which remains under constant threat from pollution. Ensure that Mobuoy Dump is cleaned up and the remediation plan implemented as soon as possible. Review current legislative protections for all waterways in city and district including Enagh Lough.’  ‘More trees to align the roadways. Improve air quality’.  ‘The Foyle needs a good clean out’.  ‘There is no mention of how farmers will be participating other than conforming to the laws and policies. They control most of the land and are responsible for slurry spreading and consequent pollution of water bodies.’ As outlined earlier, DAERA are responsible for natural heritage legislative designations and are responsible for raising awareness, surveillance and enforcing remediation of water quality issues, including working with farmers and the remediation of Mobuoy. We are currently reviewing our air quality action plan and will identify areas that would benefit from tailored green infrastructure interventions to improve air quality.

3.4 Climate Change Overall, there were 15 responses to the consultation that referenced the Key Strategic Theme, ‘Climate Change’. Outlined below is a summary of the responses:

 ‘Implement a test case for fully integrated SuDS (I.e. surface located drainage solutions rather than underground holding tanks)’.  ‘Alternative power sourcing. Solar paneling schemes reroll out to private and executive houses in the village. Wind turbine for the community hall. River banking to be reinforced with more rocks, trees and not top soil. Reduce localised flooding.’  ‘Provide more electric car chargers across city and outlying areas’.  ‘There is a lot of buried rivers and streams in the city centre that put pressure on the city system during flash floods. Is it possible to dig these out and provide bio diverse natural flood defence systems? Flooding is more of a priority. Please dig up some of our buried streams and give them a modern flood bio diverse flood defence... you might be able to use some of those new ecologically friendly hydro-powered pumps’.  ‘DFI will shortly be releasing new guidance on dealing with climate change, ‘Technical Flood Risk Guidance in Relation to Allowances for Climate Change in Northern Ireland…will detail some changes to Flood Maps NI whereby the climate change flood mapping will change from 2030 Epoch to 2080 Epoch.’  ‘It acknowledges the contribution of forests and woodland to carbon storage. It acknowledges that a lack of riparian woodland leads to more damage caused by flooding.’  ‘Maubuoy dump & settling ponds offer potential for wetland development and water storage since climate change is predicted to cause water shortages?’

Overall, the responses were positive. Outlined below is a discussion of the responses.

 We are working with a range of partners to trial a SUDS site within the District. We currently do not have plans to re-instate rivers / streams. However, we will review opportunities to reduce the risk of flooding, by working in partnership with DFI & their ‘Technical Flood Risk Guidance’ & revised flood maps to 2080. Also, there are opportunities to work with the GI Stakeholders to increase riparian planting to reduce the risk of flooding. In addition, under the LDP 2032 there will be reference to the GI Plan and climate change in several planning policies.  Energy is beyond the scope of the GI Plan. These issues can be addressed by the Energy section within Council.  Maubuoy is classified as contaminated land and requires remediation by DAERA.

3.5 Communication and Engagement Outlined below is a summary of the responses.

 ‘Promote Enagh Lough, Prehen Woods, and Muff Glen Forest. Further develop and enhance the Faughan Valley Landscape Partnership Project. Aim for a 100% rate of all primary and secondary schools in the city and district achieving the Eco Schools green flag status. Further invest in the Live Here Love Here projects. Scope Enagh Lough Heritage Trail.’  ‘More community workshops’.  ‘Showcase Creggan Country Park as an existing Green Infrastructure Best Practice example for local visitors, businesses, tourists.’  ‘Better community involvement. People need to involve themselves with nature to appreciate it. We live in a rural area but realistically it’s difficult to immerse yourself in nature without jumping in a car and going for a drive. People need education.’  ‘Litter picking for schools program. The more litter they collect have an incentive. As it's mostly young people who litter.’  ‘Develop Climate Change education programme for schools and deliver public awareness campaign/events with help of existing environmental education providers such as Creggan Country Park, TCV, Lough's Agency, Woodland Trust etc.’  ‘Educate local communities on what they go do to mitigate against climate change.’  ‘A local and central government strategy with defined outcomes within timescales.’  ‘Develop a handbook or visitors guide to bring the GI plan to life.’  ‘Education for ALL not just children…Communicate climate change. Use local media and social more effectively. Make environmental conferences/awareness days FREE.’  ‘Advance the Circular Economy and Zero Waste strategy with Deeds not Words.’  ‘Have an area where you can grow fresh fruit and vegetables and let people see how to do this.’  ‘Fantastic to see that GI is embedded in all council policies, departments and that both staff and public understand and appreciate the value of nature. Planning decisions should always take GI into account to protect vulnerable habitats and wildlife.’  ‘For the new GI education programme - use experience/resources from existing environmental education programmes such as Creggan Country Park's 'Nature's Classroom' programme to educate children on GI issues ranging from Climate change, biodiversity to priority species.’  ‘Could you combine this education with invest NI to get involved to asking people to set up Aquaponic factories and cradle to cradle inner city system businesses. The council can't maintain these kinds of things on their own only kick start them. They

could encourage people to come and invest into building super businesses and use free education and strategies to over come this, even if its, "come to Derry- Londonderry, we have several sites that could become new super sustainable factory powerhouses, and we can give you the kick start you need.’  ‘Is there a plan to establish an online portal and apps?’  ‘Could you consider including community planning?’  ‘Provide facilities and activities for our young people to encourage them to think of their immediate environment and natural areas that are accessible to them and how they can investigate these and at the same time care and look after them for the future.’  ‘Provide opportunities for children to grow and eat food at school and home. Encourage flower bombing of areas with wild flower seeds and vegetables in all places. If you have space grow something you can eat.’

The respondents’ comments were supportive. Outlined below is a discussion of these responses.

 We will promote all publically owned and accessible woodlands.  Council’s Recycling Officer currently assists any school that expresses an interest in obtaining the Eco Schools Green Flag. We have an advisory role, but cannot enforce this voluntary measure. Also, Council provide litter pickers and collect the litter after the school or community event.  The GI Action Plan will outline detailed actions to deliver the GI Plan. This will include a range of education, community events, social media and apps to raise awareness and take action for the themes outlined in the GI Plan. Also, we will use a range of sites to show GI best practise. In addition, we will develop guidance on our website and a handbook to communicate GI.  The GI Plan aims to improve green & blue spaces. It is linked to the Derry & Strabane Local Development Plan and Strategic Growth Plan (Community Plan). It will incorporate the food circular economy, under the food priority of the Economic Prosperity Key Strategic Theme. However, the wider ‘Circular Economy & Zero Waste Strategy’ is beyond the scope of the GI Plan.  Planning permission has been granted for Acorn Farm, which will provide food growing opportunities and training.  We will contact Invest NI, to discuss business opportunities.

3.6 Health and Wellbeing Overall, there were 14 responses to the consultation that referenced the Cross Cutting Theme, ‘Health & Wellbeing’. Outlined below is a summary of the responses:

 ‘Food security is vital. Communicate link between health and our natural world.’  ‘Outside gym area.’  ‘Reconnection with nature through volunteering, education and recreation.’  ‘Encourage sustainable travel options-walking/cycling etc.’  ‘Water sports in general are fitness and health promoting, mostly without trauma to joints and can be continued into advanced age. Keeping the water environment will continue to promote tourism, angling, commercial shellfish and fishing as well as encouraging the use for sport.’  ‘Create recreational activities as focus of River Foyle..... accessible slipways, boating culture.’  ‘This is where I think money could be pumped into advertising local community clubs to go out paddling and also market these clubs races. At the moment Foyle paddlers and Derry City boat club seem to market their own races and not very many people know about them.’  ‘Our River Foyle could be used for more water sports and activities. Companies should be encouraged to promote and provide activities for families and adults alike.’  ‘Encourage people to connect with the environment throughout the year...encourage organisations to support staff to have time out from office including walking meetings and walk breaks.’  ‘Walking is one of the most important things we can do for health and wellbeing. Millions is spent on pharmaceuticals and counselling that could be spent building trails. The old excuse of having no money to do things is rubbish. Trails and greenways will pay for themselves and become an important asset to our area.’

The responses were very positive and a discussion of the responses is outlined below.

 The GI Action Plan outlines the creation of a Food Plan, to examine food security, reconnection with nature, health etc.  There are a number of outdoor gym facilities within the District. We aim to promote all publically accessible green and blue spaces as formal and informal recreational spaces to promote active lifestyles, to improve health & wellbeing. Also, we will promote sustainable travel using our greenspaces and greenways. We are working with the GI stakeholders to promote the health benefits of walking in our greenspaces to improve their health and wellbeing. We will create short walking routes to enable people to meet the Chief Medical Officers weekly exercise recommendations.  Under the Economic Prosperity Theme, we will promote volunteering and re- connecting with nature.

3.7 Natural Capital Overall, there were eight responses to the consultation that referenced the Cross Cutting Theme, ‘Natural Capital’. Outlined below is a summary of the responses:

 ‘Change can only take place with actions to develop a collaborative local and central government approach to agreeing outcomes within a defined timescale. The current separation of responsibilities and budgets is unsustainable and will ultimately fail to achieve. Does a signed up contract of agreement exist?’  ‘It's a grave and sad matter when we have to monetise nature to appreciate its value. Rights for nature needs to be pursued. In New Zealand, you pollute a river, you're prosecuted for GBH. The cost of climate change is only going to rise. People need informed and encouraged to play their part. Awareness raising that protecting biodiversity and planting woodlands will help protect their very lives. Not convinced that precise monetary values are needed!’  ‘Natural capital will help to highlight economic benefits of high quality GI to public.’  ‘Could you ask businesses to get a carbon certificate rating like we have for food standards?’  ‘Would you consider a co design and management partnership between statutory and community as has successfully been recognised elsewhere by the Harvard Ash Center?’  ‘Farmers and local residents should be aware of how valuable asset our. Rivers and green areas are to walk in to play in and for animals and fish to survive and sustain life in the future. No slurry getting into the rivers.’

Outlined below is a discussion of the responses.

 Council and the Community Plan Partners have signed off the GI Plan. There is a detailed action plan to deliver the GI Plan.  We will provide additional information to explain Natural Capital, linked to environment strategies and the benefits.  Under Council’s Climate Adaptation Plan, we will consider the merit of a carbon certificate rating.  Under the communication & engagement theme, we will increase awareness, understanding and action to protect our natural assets.

3.8 Further Engagement Outlined below is a summary of the responses in relation to further engagement:

 ‘An online portal offering the public opportunities to help, giving up to the minute deliverables against already published plans and sharing data’.  ‘Yes as a private sector representative. I can also communicate plans/initiatives across the workforce.’  ‘Yes particularly in a discussion around SuDS to alleviate the effects of flooding - something that has been particularly problematic in recent times.’  ‘I'm an Architect … a member of the public to see what your detailed plans entail and make comments, that would also be amazing.’  ‘Yes! I am part of the Harvard-sponsored project researching the future of the City Region, and would love to remain in dialogue after our time spent here concludes.’  ‘Happy to be involved, and could garner interest and support from the company.’

There was strong support for further engagement with the GI Plan process. We will update the GI Plan section of the website to show progress, with an annual report.

3.9 Further Comments Further comments are summarised below:

 ‘Very obscure for very rural areas with the Derg ward of the entire district area’.  ‘Why is there no climate change comments page It is THE NUMBER ONE ISSUE. The public needs to be informed much more fully about our existential threat. Need a climate emergency declared and carbon neutral by 2025. Food security a priority. Free public transport. No airport expansion. NO new road building. GI all well and good, some good ideas but deep adaptation needs to feature more strongly.’  ‘I would like to congratulate Derry City and Strabane District Council for their forward thinking approach to ensure our green and blue spaces are valued and considered at all levels. The benefits of ecosystem services are endless and will bring social, economic, health and environmental benefits to the people of our city. Thank you for being the first council in Northern Ireland to undertake this effective approach and I hope other councils will follow your shining example.’  ‘Although I am primarily involved in rowing, both competing and coaching. I strongly support all water sports and the Foyle has massive potential. Held back by the lack of access and facilities. Those of us who use the water and rowers are out every week in winter and most days in summer understand the importance of keeping it unpolluted and alive by all the other land based activities around.’  ‘I cycle regularly into work most days and I bring my bike into the office because my bike has been stolen several times … so I'd appreciate lots more sheltered and camera surveillance bike storage in the city. The small ring in the ground doesn't cut it anymore and other UK councils have now started making it compulsory to have sheltered, surveillance bike locking areas. I know you are low on dough, but the more you invest into proper infrastructure, this city will change forever for the better.’

 ‘Residents of the City and District should be able to access and use ‘state of the art’ facilities such as school pitches…could reconsider its development plan of city assets especially when they are adjoining or in very close proximity to other similar facilities that are owned and operated by other statutory organisations.’  ‘Green Infrastructure planning should not stop at the Council border. Issues cross land borders.’  Please remember that every person and ratepayer should have the same opportunity to walk and use our river and parks. It seems to us in the country areas that we can be left behind or forgotten.  All people should be encouraged to use public transport and park and ride. School times should be more flexible to allow parents and children travel in better ways. Offer flexibility for workers getting to and from work. Incentives to travel on bus and train. Encourage grow your own foods and encourage parents to support the wildlife development. Bugs and bees are essential for life. Stop killing them. Clean up the bike paths outside the city centre and provide bike racks. Encourage walking meetings and have shower facilities available in working environments. Ban products with palm oil in public areas  ‘At present I hope to set up a charity … Heads and Trails seeks to highlight the importance of our natural environment to our health and wellbeing and seeks to raise funds to work in partnerships to deliver help to people suffering from mental health problems through encouraging engagement with nature throughout Ireland.’  ‘Forest Service notes that the section on legislation does not include the Forestry Act (NI) 2010. The Forestry Act places a General Duty on the Department (DAERA) to promote afforestation and sustainable forestry and requires DAERA to carry out that duty in relation to forestry (i.e. Departmental) to promote and encourage the enjoyment and recreational use of that land by the public…promote the social benefits of those forests. The Act has also broadened the traditional function of forestry, to include the management of forestry land to contribute to the protection of the environment, biodiversity and the mitigation of or adaption to climate change. The Act also promotes and encourages the enjoyment and recreational use of that land by the public through the development of facilities through partnerships such as that between Forest Service and Councils. The Act is directly relevant to a number of aspects of the GI Plan: most notably, it includes sections on restriction on felling, power of the Department to require restocking after unauthorised felling, and the public right to access to, and byelaws for, forestry land.’  ‘In relation to the issue of felling licences, Forest Service advises that, although exemptions within the Act apply to tree felling with a city park or a garden or where the tree felling is necessary for a development authorised by planning permission, a felling licence is required for tree felling in other woodlands including those managed by a Council.’  ‘Forest Service advises that there is duty on landowners to ensure their trees are assessed and maintained so as to avoid an unreasonable health & safety risk to people. The amount of work required is dependent on the level of usage by visitors. DAERA has published guidance on the level of tree safety management required to meet statutory obligations.’

 ‘The city aspires to become a UNESCO learning city we suggest some reference to the UN Sustainable Development goals.’

A discussion of the responses is outlined below.

 The GI Plan is an overarching document, which extends beyond the District, as outlined on page 8 of the GI Plan. The GI Action Plan outlines the detailed actions that will be delivered for each theme over the short, medium and long term, to include urban and rural areas.  Climate Change is one of the four Key Strategic Themes. We will develop a Climate Adaptation Plan and raise awareness of the impacts of climate change. The UK Government have made a commitment to become carbon neutral by 2050. Derry City & Strabane District Council have recently announced a Climate Declaration. Food security will be addressed under the food priority of the ‘economic prosperity’ theme. The reference to free public transport, airport expansion and road building is beyond the scope of this plan.  Under the greenways priority of the ‘People & Place’ theme we will review bike storage facilities.  We will discuss with the GI Stakeholders the potential for the public to avail of greenspace provision, including sports facilities that are currently not available for the public to utilise.  We currently promote and will continue to promote sustainable active travel. References to school and working times are beyond the scope of this plan.  We will update the GI Plan to make reference and linkages to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

4. Conclusion Overall, there was significant support the GI Plan. Having considered all of the comments received during the consultation period, Council will use these to inform the revision of the GI Plan 2019-2032 and the associated GI Action Plan. We are planning to produce the final GI Plan and associated GI Action Plan in autumn 2019.

We will reference the GI Plan as ‘Part 1’ and the GI Action Plan as ‘Part 2’. The GI Plan’s Key Strategic Themes, will reference an example of the types of GI actions, to include one from the City side, Waterside and rural areas where it is relevant, to improve understanding of the distribution of the proposed actions.

Council’s Equality Officer has reviewed this report and determined that there is not a requirement for an Equality Impact Assessment, as the GI Plan will have a positive impact.

Appendix 1

GI Stakeholder Group

APEX Housing Association Creggan Country Park Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Department for Communities Department for Infrastructure Education Authority Habinteg Housing Association Loughs Agency Northern Ireland Housing Executive Public Health Agency Radius Housing RAPID Sustrans University of Ulster Western Health and Social Care Trust Woodland Trust

Appendix 2

Consultation Questions Section 1 Contact Details for You / Your Organisation

1.1 What is your name? Name (Required)

1.2 What is your email address? Email (Required)

1.3 If responding on behalf of an organization, please name the organisation:  Individual  Organisation Name

Section Two Key Strategic Themes

People and Place Strategic Aim – GI enhances our quality of life

People and Place Key Strategic Priorities:  Provide high quality multi-functional green and blue spaces  Develop quality play provision  Develop an active and sustainable transport network People and Place Potential Actions:  Retain Green Flag status of Brook Park and extend to St Columbs Park  Review existing play provision and identify need for additional play provision by commissioning a new Play Plan  Deliver the EU Interreg cross border greenway project connecting the district with Muff, Buncrana and Lifford

2.1 Please use the box below to detail any comments you may have on the key strategic priorities identified for the ‘People & Place’ theme

2.2 Please use the box below to suggest other opportunities for potential future actions for the ‘People & Place’ key strategic theme

Economic Prosperity Strategic Aim – GI is a key aspect of Economic Growth

Economic Prosperity Key Strategic Priorities:  GI is a key component of regeneration projects  Green and blue spaces are a driver for tourism and economic growth  GI supports a local circular food economy  GI provides opportunities for lifelong learning and employment Economic Prosperity Potential Actions:  A green infrastructure screening matrix (checklist) is developed  Develop a green tourism product using existing GI assets as visitor attractions  Deliver an iconic permaculture demonstration project  Create employment pathways

2.3 Please use the box below to detail any comments you may have on the key strategic priorities identified for the ‘Economic Prosperity’ theme

2.4 Please use the box below to suggest other opportunities for potential future actions for the ‘Economic Prosperity’ key strategic theme

Biodiversity Strategic Aim – GI supports wildlife and habitats that provide ecosystem services

Biodiversity Key Strategic Priorities:  Minimise habitat loss and fragmentation to include priority habitats and species  Minimise the impacts of invasive alien species (IAS)  Adapt to the current and predicted effects of climate change to minimise the impact on native habitats and species  Address the impact of air and water pollution on biodiversity

Biodiversity Potential Actions:  Create, enhance and restore priority habitats that would pose a regional, national or global loss of habitat  Raise awareness, understanding, management and biosecurity measures to address IAS  Raise awareness, understanding and the impacts of climate change for key habitats, species and ecosystem services  Plant woodlands to reduce, diffuse pollution and improve water quality to meet the Water Framework Directive

2.5 Please use the box below to detail any comments you may have on the key strategic priorities identified for the ‘Biodiversity’ theme

2.6 Please use the box below to suggest other opportunities for potential future actions for the ‘Biodiversity’ key strategic theme

Climate Change Strategic Aim – GI will be maximised to mitigate against and adapt to the effects of climate change

Climate Change Key Strategic Priorities:  Develop Climate Action Plan  Develop green infrastructure as preferred climate action response  Develop green infrastructure to address the effects of climate change and severe weather events in the city and district

Climate Change Potential Actions:  Develop a climate adaption and mitigation plan for the district  Encourage Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems to reduce the need for additional grey infrastructure  Planting floodplain, riparian and wider catchment woodland for flood risk management

2.7 Please use the box below to detail any comments you may have on the key strategic priorities identified for the ‘Climate Change’ theme

2.8 Please use the box below to suggest other opportunities for potential future actions for the ‘Climate Change’ key strategic theme

Section Three Cross Cutting Themes

Health and Wellbeing Cross Cutting Theme Priority:  Define and develop the health and wellbeing benefits of Green Infrastructure for our environment and people

Health and Wellbeing Potential Actions:  Research the potential benefits of activities on water and evaluate health benefits  Re-connection with food growing and circular food economy  Define the health and wellbeing benefits of ecosystem services  Measures to address heat stress and flood risk

3.1 Please use the box below to detail any comments you may have on the cross cutting priorities identified for the ‘Health & Wellbeing’ theme.

3.2 Please use the box below to suggest other opportunities for potential future actions for the ‘Health & Wellbeing’ cross cutting theme.

Communication and Engagement Cross Cutting Theme Priority:  Develop awareness, understanding and appreciation of the value of green infrastructure to create change at a policy, organizational and individual level

Communication and Engagement Potential Actions:  Update Council’s website with details of green space provision  Educate children on sustainable food production through engagement programmes  Develop and deliver a GI education programme to target the public, schools, community and business sectors  Educational programmes/workshops/conferences/specialist courses for researchers, technical people and designers

3.3 Please use the box below to detail any comments you may have on the cross cutting priorities identified for the ‘Communication & Engagement’ theme.

3.4 Please use the box below to suggest other opportunities for potential future actions for the ‘Communication & Engagement’ cross cutting theme.

Natural Capital Cross Cutting Theme Priority:  Define the natural capital and value of Green Infrastructure as an evidence base to justify future development

Natural Capital Potential Actions:  Calculate the value of green space provision for the district  Calculate the potential value of GI for tourism  Conduct a natural capital audit of the district  Calculate the volume of carbon stored, level of flood risk reduction by GI solutions

3.5 Please use the box below to detail any comments you may have on the cross cutting priorities identified for the ‘Natural Capital’ theme

3.6 Please use the box below to suggest other opportunities for potential future actions for the ‘Natural Capital’ cross cutting theme

Section 4 Further Comments

4.1 Would you be interested in engaging with the Green Infrastructure Plan actions?

4.2 Please detail any additional comments in the box below

Thank you for participating in this public consultation on the draft Derry and Strabane’s Green Infrastructure Plan 2019 – 2032. Your comments will be helpful in informing the preparation of the Derry and Strabane’s Green Infrastructure Plan 2019 – 2032.

Appendix 3

Table of comments Summary of comments Action Additional sensory gardens & There are a number of these facilities at our partner outdoor classrooms organisations (Playtrail, Loughs Agency & Creggan Country Park). Dog parks Council are currently reviewing ‘Dog Control Orders’ which will be available for public consultation, with options for areas where dogs will be able to be let off their leads. Park runs & outside gym area Currently available in St Columb’s Park. A park in Strabane Council announced an E9 m Riverine project, to provide greenspace provision for Strabane & Lifford areas. Extend green flag This is listed as an action in the GI Action Plan. SUDS schemes & policy Council are reviewing the potential of a SUDS policy under the planning policies of the Local Development Plan 2032. We are working with a range of partners to trial a SUDS site within the District. We currently do not have plans to re-instate rivers / streams. However, we will review opportunities to reduce the risk of flooding, by working in partnership with DFI & their ‘Technical Flood Risk Guidance’ & revised flood maps to 2080. Also, there are opportunities to work with the GI Stakeholders to increase riparian planting to reduce the risk of flooding. Designated area for bonfires Bonfire sites are beyond the scope of the GI Plan Create growing spaces to Council have obtained planning permission for Acorn include edible landscapes, Farm at St Columb’s Park, for food growing facilities allotment provision and programmes. Council are currently reviewing its food growing provision throughout the District as part of the LDP process. We aim to develop a Food Strategy for the District, which will include identifying sites suitable for edible planting in our greenspaces. Create skate parks This will be considered when updating the draft GI Action Plan. Utilise the River Foyle to ‘Future Foyle’ project led by Public Health Agency, in change the negative partnership with Council will aim to address the association with the river, negative association with the River Foyle. The improve access & linking with Riverine Project and Strathfoyle Greenway will offer ‘Future Foyle’ Project improved access, building upon access at Culmore Point, Prehen & the Quay. Strabane Canal path We have developed plans to upgrade the Strabane condition Canal path and the long-term aim is to connect it to

the wider greenway network as outlined on page 31 of the GI Plan. Develop quality play provision There are a number of Disability Play Provision with disability provision Equipment sites, for example, Brooke Park & the equipment Playtrail. We are currently reviewing our 84 play Green areas around play provision sites and an assessment for the need for parks additional provision as part of a new Play Plan for the Lack of play provision in rural District. Also, play provision development will be in areas, some are blocked off line with the LDP 2032, which will comply with the and not safe natural environment and open space policies. Greenway development The LDP 2032 will include revised planning policies should not damage (to include the open space and natural environment) biodiversity in relation to the natural environment. Strathfoyle Greenway The Strathfoyle Greenway is progressing. We are currently liaising with landowners to secure the land to develop the greenway and working to secure funding to construct the greenway extension to Strathfoyle. Repair the footbridge at Muff Council provided a consultation response to Forest Glen Service’s forest proposals and requested that the connection at Muff Glen be reviewed to improve connectivity within the site. River pathways A planning application has been submitted to develop a greenway along the River Faughan at Drumahoe. There is currently walking trail provision along the River Faughan, for example, Oaks Wood, Claudy Country Park and Learmount Forest. Also, we are working in partnership with the Woodland Trust on their Faughan Valley Treescape Project, which includes access improvements. Pedestrian zones This will be reviewed under the new planning policies of the LDP 2032. Wider regeneration, district The GI Plan is an overarching document. The walking, greenway network associated GI Action Plan outlines the detailed development and connectivity specific projects that will be delivered over the short, throughout the District medium and long-term. To address this, the GI Plan Cycle storage will be labelled Part 1 and the GI Action Plan will be labelled Part 2. The EU Interregg Cross Border greenway project is part of the wider North West Greenway Plan (Derry City & Strabane District Council, 2015), which outlines the wider greenway strategy. The GI Plan indicates our wider greenway provision for the District to 2032 on page 31, showing our aspirations to link the Cityside to the wider District. For example, there is greenway access provision from the Foyle Bridge to Ebrington, with current construction to extend the greenway from Ebrington to the new Multi-modal Transport Hub and to the Craigavon Bridge, which will connect the city on the east and west bank with the three bridges. The

long-term vision is to assist with delivering the Department for Infrastructure’s (2016) A Strategic Plan for Greenways: Exercise, Explore, Enjoy, to utilise the former railway network, extending the current greenway provision from the Craigavon Bridge to New Buildings and to extend this to the current Strabane Canal path, which will be upgraded, to Strabane and towards Sion Mills. Also, with the A6 Dualling project, there is potential to utilise land to develop a greenway along this corridor. An online cycle provision map is available and we are currently working in partnership with DFI, to increase the number of safe cycle parking locations in Derry and Strabane. The LDP 2032 will review vehicular dominance and high quality public space. Park & ride provision There are a number of park and ride provision and DFI will review provision. Electric bike scheme Legislation is required to allow the operation of an electric bike scheme. Greenway definition The greenway definition is in line with that of the Department for Infrastructure, in their A Strategic Plan for Greenways: Exercise, Explore, Enjoy (Department for Infrastructure, 2016). Economic prosperity theme Additional information will be provided to highlight the query UN Sustainability Goals and the linkages to the Community Plan’s three pillars (economic, social and environmental). Incorporate wild areas into Under the GI Action Plan, Council aims to review the parks and create wildlife management of its greenspaces and grass cutting corridors regimes. The GI Plan aims to improve connectivity, to include wildlife corridors between greenspaces. Plant, manage & protect We are currently developing a Tree Management native woodlands System to manage Council owned trees. Council have worked in partnership with the Public Health Agency, under the ‘Life Project’, to issue a free tree to everyone that is born or married in the District. If individuals choose not to plant the tree themselves, it is planted as part of a woodland on Council owned greenspaces. Prehen Wood is owned and managed by the Woodland Trust. Also, Enagh Lough is owned and managed by several private landowners. As outlined earlier, the GI Plan is an overarching document and is unable to select every natural heritage feature for discussion in the Plan. The Department for Agriculture, Environment & Rural Affairs (DAERA) are responsible for designating sites in Northern Ireland, based on UK selection criteria. The GI Plan appendix references all designated natural heritage sites by DAERA. The GI Stakeholders aim to increase the percentage of

woodland within the District. However, an additional 3,300 ha of woodland over the next 13 years is considered an unrealistic smart target to achieve, as it would depend on private landowners / farmers planting large areas of agricultural land. We will review a realistic target as part of the revision of the GI Action Plan. The LDP 2032 will outline proposals for increasing tree planting. We will review the section on the impact of commercial forests and peatlands, to reflect the comments. Co-design and management The GI Plan and associated GI action plan is co- agreement including auditing designed and managed by the GI Stakeholders listed and evaluation to develop an in Appendix 2, which form part of the Community Plan inclusive action plan Partnership. They have signed off the GI Plan and they will assist with the delivery of the GI action plan, which will be audited and evaluated annually against the actions listed in the short, medium and long-term. Japanese knotweed Japanese knotweed & Giant hogweed are listed as management invasive alien species under the Wildlife Order (NI) 1985 & the Wildlife & Natural Environment Act (2011). Therefore, Council have a Biodiversity Duty to control it on their land, to prevent its further spread. Japanese knotweed needs to be grown in a laboratory controlled setting for commercial use. Mobuoy Landfill remediation DAERA are responsible for natural heritage legislative Farmer participation designations and are responsible for raising awareness, surveillance and enforcing remediation of water quality issues, including working with farmers and the remediation of Mobuoy that is classified as contaminated land and requires remediation by DAERA. Air quality issues We are currently reviewing our air quality action plan and will identify areas that would benefit from tailored green infrastructure interventions to improve air quality. Renewable energy provision Energy is beyond the scope of the GI Plan. These issues can be addressed by the Energy section within Council. Promote green & blue spaces We will promote all publically owned and accessible woodlands, parks and blue spaces. We will contact Invest NI, to discuss business opportunities. Promote eco-schools and Council’s Recycling Officer currently assists any sites of best practice GI Sites school that expresses an interest in obtaining the Eco Community workshops, Schools Green Flag. We have an advisory role, but seminars and education cannot enforce this voluntary measure. Also, Council programmes provide litter pickers and collect the litter after the GI Plan handbook, online school or community event. The GI Action Plan will portal and apps outline detailed actions to deliver the GI Plan, to include under the communication and engagement

theme to increase awareness, understanding and action to protect our natural assets. This will include a range of education, community events, social media and apps to raise awareness and take action for the themes outlined in the GI Plan. Also, we will use a range of sites to show GI best practise. In addition, we will develop guidance on our website and a handbook to communicate GI. Community planning The GI Plan aims to improve green & blue spaces. It Zero waste strategy is linked to the Derry & Strabane Local Development Plan and Strategic Growth Plan (Community Plan). It will incorporate the food circular economy, under the food priority of the Economic Prosperity Key Strategic Theme. However, the wider ‘Circular Economy & Zero Waste Strategy’ is beyond the scope of the GI Plan. Health and natural world link, The GI Action Plan outlines the creation of a Food including education and Plan, to examine food security, re-connection with volunteering nature, health etc. Sustainable travel options We aim to promote all green and blue spaces as formal and informal recreational spaces to promote active lifestyles, to improve health & wellbeing. Also, we will promote sustainable travel using our greenspaces and greenways. We are working with the GI stakeholders to promote the health benefits of walking in our greenspaces to improve their health and wellbeing. We will create short walking routes to enable people to meet the Chief Medical Officers weekly exercise recommendations. We currently promote and will continue to promote sustainable active travel. References to school and working times are beyond the scope of this plan. Natural capital queries We will provide additional information to explain Natural Capital, linked to environment strategies and the benefits. Carbon certificate rating During the development of Council’s Climate Plan, we will consider the merit of a carbon certificate rating. Obscure rural details The GI Action Plan outlines the detailed actions that will be delivered for each theme over the short, medium and long term, to include urban and rural areas. Climate change Climate Change is one of the four Key Strategic Themes. We will develop a Climate Adaptation Plan and raise awareness of the impacts of climate change. The UK Government have made a commitment to become carbon neutral by 2050. Food security will be addressed under the food priority of the ‘economic prosperity’ theme. The reference to free public transport, airport expansion and road building is beyond the scope of this plan.

School pitch access We will discuss with the GI Stakeholders the potential for the public to avail of greenspace provision, including sports facilities that are currently not available for the public to utilise. GI Plan boundary The GI Plan is an overarching document, which extends beyond the District, as outlined on page 8 of the GI Plan. UN Sustainable Development We will update the GI Plan to make reference and Goals linkages to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Appendix 4

References

Department for Infrastructure. 2016. A Strategic Plan for Greenways: Exercise, Explore, Enjoy. https://www.infrastructure- ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/infrastructure/exercise-explore-enjoy-a- strategic-plan-for-greenways-november-2016-final.pdf Accessed 21/06/2019

Derry City and Strabane District Council. 2015. North West Greenway Plan. https://www.derrystrabane.com/getmedia/56932767-0160-401e-a53a- 84963957f617/North-West-Greenway-Plan_draft_5_15-10-15-reduced-size.pdf Accessed 21/06/2019

Derry City and Strabane District Council. 2017. Derry City and Strabane District’s Inclusive Growth Plan 2017-2032: Our Community Plan. http://www.derrystrabane.com/getmedia/1eb99e2e-e657-45a1-8b27- e2b35a36d65c/SGP_22-November2017_lowres.pdf Accessed 08/02/2018

Derry City and Strabane District Council. 2018. Derry City and Strabane District’s Green Infrastructure Framework. http://www.derrystrabane.com/getmedia/bbed1ff9- 254b-4af7-a7f0-851e2110a8ae/GI-Framework.pdf Accessed 01/10/2018

Derry City and Strabane District Council. 2019. Derry City and Strabane District’s Green Infrastructure Plan. http://www.derrystrabane.com/GI Accessed 19/06/2019