East Belfast Juke Yard transformed into community garden with airport funding

An unused concrete yard in East Belfast has been transformed into a new biodiversity hub and outdoor learning space, thanks to support from Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund.

The project, known as The Juke Yard, has been developed by Our Social Space Ltd to provide a welcoming environment where local residents can take part in environmental workshops, learn new skills and strengthen community connections.

The new outdoor space aims to promote wellbeing, encourage participation in environmental activities and make a positive contribution to the surrounding neighbourhood.

East Belfast Juke Yard creates new community space

The East Belfast Juke Yard project has turned a previously unused concrete area into a space designed to bring people together through nature and community activities.

Developed by Our Social Space, the initiative will provide opportunities for residents to participate in workshops focused on improving their local environment.

Organisers hope the project will encourage people to become more involved in their community while developing a greater appreciation of biodiversity and the benefits of spending time outdoors.

The transformation was made possible through financial support from Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund, which provides assistance to organisations and projects across Greater Belfast and North Down.

Belfast City Airport supports community initiative

Bronagh O’Kane, Community Fund Ambassador at Belfast City Airport, welcomed the completion of the project and highlighted the airport’s commitment to supporting local organisations.

She said: “As an airport in the heart of the city, we’re committed to investing in the people and organisations that help our community flourish. Through our Community Fund, we support initiatives that inspire participation, unlock potential, and deliver long-term benefits.

“The enthusiasm and commitment shown by Our Social Space has been remarkable, and we’re proud to have played a part in bringing this vision to life, enriching East Belfast for years to come.”

The airport’s Community Fund has supported a range of local initiatives, with projects intended to deliver lasting benefits for residents and community organisations.

Our Social Space welcomes completion of project

Carrie Montgomery, Chief Executive Officer of Our Social Space Ltd, said the new facility would provide a valuable opportunity for residents to connect with one another and contribute to their surroundings.

She said: “We are delighted to see ‘The Juke Yard’ come to life and to create a space where people can come together, learn and enjoy making a positive difference.

“Thanks to Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund, we have turned an idea into reality, and we look forward to seeing the benefit it will have on the community and environment for years to come.”

The organisation hopes the new space will encourage residents to participate in activities that support both community wellbeing and environmental improvement.

Airport Community Fund approaches £800,000 investment

Belfast City Airport has confirmed that its Community Fund has invested £781,852 in 262 local projects across Greater Belfast and North Down.

The airport is working towards its commitment to invest £1 million in the local community by 2028, with a longer-term ambition to double that figure by 2040.

The fund supports initiatives designed to encourage participation, strengthen local communities and provide opportunities for residents.

The Juke Yard is the latest example of how this funding is being used to support grassroots projects in neighbourhoods surrounding the airport.

The newly transformed space will now provide a setting for residents to learn, participate in environmental activities and build community connections.

Further information about Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund is available on the airport’s official website.

External link: Belfast City Airport — Our Community

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