A new public park has opened in Saintfield, transforming the site of a ruined 19th-century windmill into a community heritage space.

Windmill Park, located at the former Glasdrumman windmill, opened last Thursday. It is the County Down village’s first public park.

The windmill was built in 1805 by the McBurney family. It was destroyed during the “Night of the Big Wind” in January 1839. The park retains the tower remains and the miller’s cottage as central features.

US businessman David Moffett, whose ancestors left Saintfield generations ago, purchased the site and supported its £1.4 million redevelopment. The National Lottery Heritage Fund also provided funding.

The community association trustee Martyn Todd said the goal was to safeguard the important site and create a space for everyone. Olive Hill of the Heritage Fund said the project preserved the historic structures, recreated a section of the old Belfast and County Down Railway, and boosted local biodiversity.

The rewilded grounds include native grasses, trees, and wildflowers. Gravel paths lead visitors around the park, with interpretive panels detailing the area’s history and the people who lived and worked there.

Cllr Callum Bowsie welcomed the opening, noting he had supported the project from inception. SDLP leader Claire Hanna said the park provides much-needed green space and celebrates local heritage, with areas for leisure, exercise, education, and wildlife conservation.

David Moffett described the project as a dream realized and encouraged young people to get involved in their community.

Windmill Park is free to enter. Opening hours are 9am to 8pm from April to September, and 9am to 3pm from October to March.