DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has welcomed a new partnership with not-for-profit organisation Outscape to develop a refreshed Outdoor Recreation Action Plan for Northern Ireland, supported through DAERA's Environment Fund to advance the Environmental Improvement Plan priority of connecting people with nature.

As part of the initiative, the Minister will seek nominations to a revitalised Strategic Outdoor Recreation Group to drive strategic coordination, action and targeted investment in the plan's delivery. The Department will also assist district councils to create and implement Community Trail Networks and a Green/Blue Places Plan across all council areas.

Announcing the move, Minister Muir said: "Ensuring we all have access to high quality outdoor recreation opportunities is something I am very passionate about. Engaging in the natural environment is fundamental to good health and well-being with clear benefits for physical and mental health.

"However, it is clear that action is needed on improving access to nature. Outscape's recently published People and the Outdoors Monitor (POMNI) found 80% of people would like to spend more of their free time outdoors, with just over half of those surveyed finding local green spaces easy to get to without a car. "I was heartened to read in the survey that many people would like to have greater involvement in developing and maintaining local green spaces. As part of this process, we will be engaging with key stakeholders to co-design a new Outdoor Recreation Action Plan to ensure we strike the right balance between the needs of landowners, local people, tourists and the environment."

He continued: "I recognise the significant collaboration, planning and resourcing by multiple agencies and organisations in developing and managing green and blue space and trails for outdoor recreation.

"By working together, we can create high-quality natural spaces that are accessible, welcoming and sustainable, ensuring everyone can enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation for years to come."

Dawson Stelfox MBE, Chairperson of Outscape, said: "Outscape warmly welcomes the opportunity to work on a new Strategic Outdoor Recreation Action Plan for Northern Ireland. This important work will help to move from ambition to delivery, with a clear focus and commitment on practical, implementable actions that will improve access to nature and support people, landowners, communities, and places across Northern Ireland.

"We look forward to engaging constructively with DAERA and wider stakeholders to help co-design the Action Plan that is practical, inclusive and focused on delivering measurable and sustainable change on the ground."

Engagement with partners and stakeholders will now get under way to co-design the plan and support consistent, sustainable outdoor recreation provision across Northern Ireland.