Lord Mayor encourages you to get on the #RightSideOfOutside

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council is supporting the ‘The Right Side of Outside’ campaign which aims to instill more positive behaviours among people using outdoor spaces.

As more and more people get outdoors, this new nationwide campaign launched by WalkNI is to generate awareness around litter issues, dangers to wildlife and what positive actions people can take to have a safe and fun outdoor experience.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Kevin Savage, said:

“Getting outdoors has been a lifeline to many people during the pandemic. As more of us embrace the beauty on our doorsteps, it has unfortunately created significant issues at some of our most loved green and outdoor spaces. 

“Litter, dog waste, irresponsible car parking, livestock worrying, disturbance to wildlife, overcrowding and damage caused by wild camping and wildfires have all taken their toll in recent months.

“As a council we are supporting this nationwide campaign to get on #TheRightSideOfOutside and create awareness of simple steps you can take to make the right choices when enjoying the great outdoors.

“We are encouraging people to prepare before heading out, adhere to health and safety measures, be respectful of others and understand that simple changes such as going early to ensure you get a car parking space, avoiding areas where livestock are present if you have a dog, bringing your dog waste and litter home with you and knowing the risks associated with outdoor fires will have a huge impact.”

The Right Side of Outside campaign will continue over the coming weeks and focuses on informing people to help them make the right choices in the outdoors.

WalkNI’s Marketing Manager, Beverley Magowan added,

“We want to ensure that people continue enjoying the outdoors, making great memories with family and friends; but in a way that is respectful to the outdoors so it is worth making yourself aware of the simple steps you can take to stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’. We choose to escape to these scenic locations to enjoy and bask in their beauty, so why taint it for future generations.”

For more information on how you can prepare for your next visit to the outdoors visit www.walkni.com or search #TheRightSideOfOutside.