The money for Ards and North Down Borough Council to rehabilitate Whitespots Country Park has been formally confirmed by Andrew Muir, Minister in the Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs.

At the site of 18th and 19th century lead mines, the Bangor Road beauty spot west of Newtownards was turned into a public park in 1995. More recently, its ancient windmill became a major destination on the Game of Thrones path, serving as a memorable scene from season three of the popular HBO fantasy show.

Because of the mineralogy of the area, a section of the park has been classified as an Area of Special Scientific Interest. It was essential to Ireland's mining history.

Walking enthusiasts in the area already love the park because it offers stunning views of Scrabo and the Peninsula.

The community is invited to join ecologists in the park for two "bio-blitz" activities in August organised by the municipality, where they may learn more about the native species present and how to identify them. In September, there will be a bat night stroll.

"This investment of over £8.5m to redevelop this parkland will not only transform the existing park but will also extend it to develop the derelict industrial site of the lead mines into an active community space for the people of Ards and North Down and visitors alike," Mer Muir stated during a visit to the Whitespots redevelopment site.

“This project will provide a significant capital injection in the area and will develop our local environment to provide much needed green space for citizens.”

Some £7.4 million is coming from the Executive’s City Growth Deals Complementary Fund, an additional £1.1m from the Environment Fund, alongside funds from Ards and North Down Borough Council, which brings the total investment close to £10m.