£10k planting project boost for Castlemara

That’s the verdict of residents after weeks of planting across the area by the Housing Executive’s grounds team.

Residents are now enjoying splashes of colour where the Housing Executive staff created new flower beds. The visual appearance has been enhanced with a variety of plants including roses, phormium and choisya.

Susanne Campbell, chair of Castlemara Community Association, said: “The estate had previously been green area only but the Housing Executive has come in and planted some beautiful flower beds around the estate.

“The garden at the front of the estate has been transformed. The Housing Executive has planted that area as well and it has certainly brightened up the estate.

“Everyone has been commenting on how well the estate is looking and the work carried out by the Housing Executive has made such a difference. It looks great.”

There are also plans to carry out further planting and explore the possibility of establishing a growing spaces project within Castlemara.

Ronnie McCreanor, Housing Executive grounds manager, added: “The Housing Executive is pleased to fund this type of activity that improves our estates and allows communities to enjoy their surroundings and have a sense of pride in their area.”

Meanwhile, The Housing Executive has been accredited with the Customer Service Excellence standard following external assessment.

Mags Lightbody, Housing Executive chief executive, said: “We are delighted our offices have again been accredited with the customer service excellence standard. The feedback from the assessment is valuable and helps us to further improve our services.”

The assessment involved visits to offices, looking at supporting evidence and talking to representatives from the Housing Community Network, stakeholders and staff.