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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has increased its financial support for the Live Here Love Here civic pride campaign, with councillors approving a rise in the council's contribution to £32,500 for 2026/27 at the monthly Council meeting on 1 June.
The Live Here Love Here small grants scheme supported 16 projects in the district in 2024/25, with the council awarding £28,647 and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive contributing a further £1,410. Almost 200 groups and 3,422 volunteers supported the charity's Adopt a Spot initiative, which empowers individuals, groups and businesses to care for and improve their local environment.
The district now has 58 Green Flag Eco Schools, officially recognised for integrating sustainability into their core culture, curriculum and daily operations. Almost 15,000 pupils are engaged through accredited Eco Schools, with the council reporting that every pound invested generates a return of almost five times that amount. Schools taking part are provided with dedicated learning materials, planning tools and guidance from the council's Environmental Education team and Eco-Schools Officers.
Three of the district's beaches, Cranfield, Murlough and Tyrella, have retained their prestigious Blue Flag status, reflecting the highest standards in water quality, safety, accessibility, environmental management and cleanliness. Eight locations have also secured Green Flag accreditation, the benchmark standard for parks and green spaces in the UK.
The council also hosts an annual environmental poster competition, with winning entries displayed throughout the district, and runs the Environmental Youth Speak Competition to encourage young people to engage with important environmental issues.
Council Chairperson Councillor Glyn Hanna said the number of accredited schools was a source of particular pride. "It is marvellous that we have 58 Green Flag schools across the district which reflects the importance young people place on not only keeping our district clean, but preserving it for future generations. Almost 15,000 pupils are engaged through accredited Eco Schools with every one pound invested by the Council producing a return of almost five times that."
Cllr Hanna said the council's partnership with Live Here Love Here remained central to its environmental ambitions. "We all have a duty to take care of our environment, take our litter home with us and leave no trace. The ongoing work across our schools is vital, instilling the need for environmental protection in the next generation and caring for this place we all call home. We need to continue having pride in our respective communities and remember that even making the smallest contribution can make a major difference."
The Chairperson said the district's collection of environmental awards spoke for itself. "Our district has secured Blue and Green Flag awards for beaches and parkland and this is a very special place to live. We need to continue looking after it."
Check out www.liveherelovehere.org
