Update on Village Renewal & Development Working Group (23-11-09)

23/11/2009

The Village Renewal & Development Thematic Working Group held its second meeting on Tuesday 3rd November 2009 in Antrim Civic Centre, followed by a study visit to the village of Toomebridge.

This group consists of LAG members from all 7 clusters and aims to research and evaluate approaches to village renewal and development; to identify approaches and good practices capable of delivering benefits to rural Northern Ireland; to record and report their findings and recommendations for the benefit of both the local and wider networks and to encourage the adoption of good practices. As a result of discussions at their intial meetings the Thematic Working Group has issued a short paper to DARD advocating a broad approach to the implementation of Measure 3.5 and highlighting challenges for consideration. This paper is available for download within the Members section of Rural Network website. Representatives from the group took the opportunity to visit the village of Toomebridge (Co. Antrim) to see village renewal in action. This village has a population of approximately 3,000 and has, over the past few years, transformed itself into a thriving rural area, offering opportunities for businesses and the local community alike. Members heard from the local Community Association on the work that is being done to further rejuvenate the area. Terms of Reference for the Working Group is available to download within the Members Section of the Rural Network website along with a copy of the minutes from its first meeting on 15th September. A schedule of dates for future meetings has been agreed. The next meeting is due to take place on Wednesday 20th January 2010.

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