Project achievements and benefits

The Connswater Community Greenway and East Belfast Flood Alleviation Scheme contributes to the economic regeneration of East Belfast through investment, employment and tourism.

The scheme has created a 9km linear park through East Belfast connecting open and green spaces for use by cyclists and walkers alike while providing local communities with flood protection.

The park generally follows the routes of the 3 main rivers in the East Belfast area – the Loop, Knock and Connswater Rivers – which flow northwards from the Castlereagh hills to the sea at Belfast Lough. It reconnects communities, links existing open green spaces and provides remediation of the associated river corridors.

For the most part the works were undertaken as an integrated contract delivered by Belfast City Council as employer and funded proportionately by each party. The overall scheme comprised:

Phase 1

Realignment of the Knock River from its existing flow path to a more meandering one through existing parkland, upgrading existing entrances, new and upgraded pedestrian/cycle paths, bridges, lighting and hard and soft landscaping.

Phase 2

The main element of the overall project that cost c.£25m:

9km of linear park for walking and cycling

16km of foot and cycle paths

26 new or improved bridges and crossings

cleaning 5km of rivers

hubs for education, interpretation points, tourism and heritage trails

CS Lewis themed square for celebrations and events

wildlife corridor from Belfast Lough to the Castlereagh Hills

The result is a vibrant, attractive, safe and accessible parkland for leisure, recreation, community events and activities at the same time as providing a high level of flood protection to 1,700 at risk properties in East Belfast.

It links local residents to parks, leisure facilities, businesses, shopping centre, schools and colleges.

It has acted as a catalyst for physical and economic development and improved access and connections for local communities to open spaces. It has created an environment that encourages healthier and more active communities, provided flood protection, enhanced river water quality and encouraged wildlife diversity.

Other social outcomes include a stronger, safer community, better access to training and development and better life chances.