Uniting for Nature Mid-Ulster
Nurturing diversity and biodiversity
Uniting for Nature is an exciting three-year project led by Ulster Wildlife that will support 10 community-led partnership projects across Mid Ulster. The programme brings people together through nature, helping to strengthen relationships, support community wellbeing and inspire local action for the natural environment.
Communities will have opportunities to build skills, knowledge and confidence in caring for nature on their doorstep. With expert guidance, tailored training and small grants of up to £3,500 per project, individuals and groups will be empowered to take positive action in their local area.
Projects could include creating community gardens, reimagining and enhancing green spaces, or raising awareness of environmental issues that matter most to local people. Each initiative will be shaped by the community, ensuring it reflects local needs, ideas and ambitions.
Alongside this, a Uniting for Nature network will be developed in partnership with communities, providing a shared space to exchange learning, resources and experiences. This network will be a lasting legacy of the project, helping to build strong connections within and between communities and sustain long-term action for nature across Mid Ulster.
Uniting for Nature is funded by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), and forms part of Mid Ulster District Council’s co-designed Local Community PEACEPLUS Action Plan.
Projects underway
Tullymeadow Partnership Project
Delivered by Tullymeadow Community Association in partnership with Augher St Macartan’s GFC and Cairde Eochair, this project brings people together through practical environmental improvements. Activities include cross-community planting days, biodiversity walks, foraging sessions and skills workshops, creating shared learning opportunities and building confidence across all ages.
Newmills, Brackaville & Coalisland Programme
Engaging young people and adults across the three communities, this project builds on seven years of local development work. A series of shared workshops will take place at Newmills Community Garden, Brackaville GFC Allotments and Krafty Kidz Outdoor Classroom, focusing on gardening, environmental art and wildlife.
Men’s & Hen’s Shed Nature Restoration Project
Led by Ballinascreen Men’s Shed, Upperlands Men’s Shed and Dúthracht Hen’s Shed, this project will restore neglected green spaces into peaceful trails and natural retreats. The groups will also explore small local markets to promote sustainable food, raise awareness of food miles and encourage community learning.
Roots and Shoots
A partnership between Magherafelt Women’s Group, Mid Ulster Volunteer Centre and InVOLve House, this project connects women aged 55+ with children from Kidz Lodge. Together they will transform a neglected space into a vibrant garden that supports biodiversity, wellbeing and intergenerational learning, with produce used in meals and future community initiatives.
Sunflower Support N.I/ Castledawson Community Allotments
Delivered by Sunflower Support NI and Castledawson Community Allotments, this project supports people with disabilities, families and children through accessible outdoor activities. Workshops include bird feeder building, herb planting, pollinator-friendly gardening, window boxes, and sensory outdoor play, all promoting wellbeing and connection to nature.
Ballinascreen Uniting Nature
Delivered by St Colm’s High School, Cornstore Youth Club and Kilcronaghan Community Association, this collaborative project brings together young people, community groups and older residents to enhance local green spaces for biodiversity and wellbeing.
Focusing on Kilcronaghan Woodland Garden and the Susan Trail at St Colm’s, the project will create accessible, nature-rich spaces while building community connection and environmental awareness. Activities include intergenerational workshops and artist-led pottery sessions, where participants will design and create nature-inspired signage and public art celebrating local wildlife and heritage.
