For Chloe McDevitt and Joanne Murray, a simple outing with their children is not as straightforward as it sounds, due to the lack of accessible green spaces in their hometown.

Their town, Strabane, with a population of around 14,000, is one of the largest in County Tyrone, yet it lacks sufficient large parks, forcing parents to consider alternative destinations like Omagh or Letterkenny in County Donegal.

However, a long-awaited development may soon change this, as construction on a multi-million pound park connecting Strabane and Lifford is expected to commence later this year, following the recent allocation of €16.7m (£14.5m) in EU funding.

The Riverine Project, initially proposed in 2012, aims to create a family-friendly area with a pavilion, greenways, and parks, stretching across the River Foyle into the Republic of Ireland.

Chloe McDevitt welcomes the news, citing the presence of a strong online community of mothers in Strabane who actively advocate for more child-friendly activities in the town.

She notes that a proposed skate park in Strabane faced opposition from local residents, with a petition launched in January, highlighting the challenges of introducing new facilities.

Joanne Murray, another local parent, often takes her seven-month-old daughter on trips outside Strabane, visiting places like the Gortin Glens near Omagh or Derry, due to the limited options available in their hometown.

She expresses concern about the lack of resources for children's activities in the area, which can be booked up or require payment, and notes that walking routes in town are often less than ideal.

The bypass, a common spot for locals, is not suitable for a stroll with a baby due to the presence of car fumes, noise, and heavy traffic.

Chloe McDevitt highlights the negative impact of the lack of outdoor facilities on young people, citing instances of anti-social behaviour, such as rubbish being thrown into her garden.

She believes that the Riverine Project could help address these issues by providing a space for young people to engage in positive activities.

Barney Harte, a Sinn Féin councillor and former chair of the Riverine Community Forum, acknowledges the project's tumultuous history, including funding issues and delays, but views the recent launch as a positive development.

The project's history is marked by setbacks, including the withdrawal of funds in 2013 and a failed application for EU funding in 2018, as well as a lapsed planning application in 2023.

Fergus Martin, a resident of Lifford, remains sceptical about the project's prospects, citing a history of unfulfilled promises and a lack of tangible progress.

However, Barney Harte is more optimistic, stating that tenders for the project are set to be issued in April, with work expected to begin in September.

He believes that once construction commences, the community will become more confident in the project's viability.

Donegal County Council has confirmed that detailed design works are progressing well, and the £14.5m in funding allocated by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) through Peaceplus will support the project's development.

At the official launch in January, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons praised the collaborative efforts of both councils, highlighting the joint commitment to bringing the project to fruition.

As the project moves forward, locals like Chloe McDevitt and Joanne Murray await the creation of much-needed green spaces and family-friendly facilities.

The Riverine Project's success could have a significant impact on the community, providing a space for outdoor activities, cultural events, and social interaction.

By addressing the lack of resources and facilities, the project aims to improve the quality of life for residents, particularly young people and families.

The development of the Riverine Project is a significant step towards creating a more vibrant and engaging community in Strabane and Lifford.

With the allocation of €16.7m (£14.5m) in EU funding, the project is poised to become a reality, bringing numerous benefits to the local community.

As the project progresses, it is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, as well as providing a valuable resource for residents.

The Riverine Project's journey has been marked by challenges and setbacks, but the recent launch and allocation of funding have renewed hopes for its successful completion.

The project's history serves as a reminder of the complexities and obstacles that can arise during the development process.

Despite these challenges, the Riverine Project remains a vital initiative for the community, and its successful completion could have a lasting impact on the region.

Fergus Martin's scepticism is understandable, given the project's history, but the recent developments and allocation of funding may help to alleviate concerns.

The project's success will depend on the collaboration and commitment of all parties involved, including the local councils and community groups.

As the project moves forward, it is essential to address the concerns and expectations of the local community, ensuring that the final product meets their needs and exceeds their expectations.

The Riverine Project has the potential to become a flagship development for the region, showcasing the benefits of collaborative planning and community engagement.

With the issuance of tenders in April and the commencement of work in September, the project is poised to become a reality, bringing numerous benefits to the local community.

The Riverine Project's success will be measured by its ability to provide a high-quality, sustainable, and accessible space for the community, addressing the current lack of resources and facilities.

The project's development is a testament to the power of community engagement and collaborative planning, demonstrating the potential for positive change through collective effort.

The allocation of £14.5m in funding from the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) through Peaceplus is a significant investment in the local community, recognizing the project's potential to drive positive change.

As the project moves forward, it is essential to maintain a focus on community needs, ensuring that the final product is tailored to the requirements and expectations of the local population.