Ritchie welcomes further Neighbourhood Renewal investment

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie recently visited Omagh and viewed Neighbourhood Renewal projects being implemented in O’Kane Park and Strathroy.

Afterwards she said: “I am impressed with the strong sense of community that has developed in many housing areas in Omagh The support of the voluntary sector and the Community Development Section of Omagh District Council have played a major role in developing community infrastructure in the area.

“The support from my Department for the provision of new equipment in O’Kane Park and the personal development of children in Strathroy demonstrates my commitment to further supporting local community organisations in their work to improve the quality of life for people in their respective areas.”

To date funding of £881,285 has been provided for Neighbourhood Renewal projects in Omagh. Projects that have been supported include the promotion of educational attainment, health and well being, physical improvements to enhance public safety, support for local community projects and environmental improvements. Funding of £19,731 for O’Kane Park will be used to refurbish the existing multi-sports facility and upgrade equipment within the Community Centre. The Afterschool and Homework club in Strathroy Community Centre is being supported with funding of £45,300.

Notes to editors

1    The Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy ‘People and Place’ was published in June 2003 to close the gap between the quality of life for people in the most deprived neighbourhoods and the rest of society. The Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy has four interlinking strategic objectives.

• Community Renewal – to develop confident communities that are able and committed to improving the quality of life in their areas.
• Economic Renewal – to develop economic activity in the most deprived neighbourhoods and connect them to the wider urban economy.
• Social Renewal – to improve social conditions for the people who live in the most deprived neighbourhoods through better co-ordinated public services and the creation of safer environments.
• Physical Renewal – to help create attractive, safe and sustainable environments in the most deprived neighbourhoods.

2    Media enquires to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9496. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.

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