Curtain up' at new Curzon homes says Attwood

It was lights, camera, action today as Social Development Minister, Alex Attwood MLA, officially opened the new Curzon apartment complex in Belfast.

Minister Attwood was joined by cinematic icons, Clint Eastwood, Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe and Indiana Jones as he marked the official opening of the new 42 apartment development, on the site of the former Curzon cinema.

The apartments have been allocated to people on the social housing waiting list. The different religious and cultural background of tenants will ensure a shared future for tenants.

Minister Attwood said: “I welcome the launch of this new ‘shared’ residential development at the Curzon. This builds on the efforts in the area and other areas to create a new order of things. At times it is difficult, even perilous, but it is the certain way to go.

“I commend all the tenants who have signed up to be part of the shared ethos of the area, thus consolidating the work that has already been delivered in the Ballynafeigh area through the Shared Neighbourhood Programme.

“The Curzon scheme goes beyond meeting housing need. It is part of a new future for housing in Northern Ireland. The people who live in these developments know they are not utopias devoid of problems, however, I firmly believe that shared housing offers a great opportunity for a more inclusive and sustainable future for our society.”

Speaking at the event, Clanmil Chief Executive, Clare McCarty added: “There has been 100% sign up to the shared futures initiative by our tenants who all share a common goal - the desire to live together in a peaceful and secure environment, respecting their neighbours. These families are helping to shape the future of housing in Northern Ireland and we wish them well as they settle into their new homes and new community.”

During his visit to the complex, Alex Attwood was introduced to new tenant, Katie Whyte, who showed the Minister around her new home.

Katie said: “We’ve all settled really well in our lovely new homes. The apartments are modern and bright and in such a great place, so close to the city centre with everything you could need.

“Although myself and the other tenants may be different from each other in some ways, everyone is getting on well together. This is how I want my family to live and I’m sure the other tenants feel the same way. I don’t really think about it as shaping the future, it’s just a lovely place to raise my son.”

Alex Attwood added: “The New Housing Agenda launched by my predecessor Margaret Ritchie, placed the delivery of a shared future at the heart of all the Department’s endeavours in housing. A shared future remains close to my heart and I will continue to build on Margaret’s legacy by working to create not just ‘mixed’ neighbourhoods but truly ‘integrated’ communities.”

Notes to editors:

1. The new Curzon apartments on the Ormeau Road will be officially opened at 10.30am on Thursday, July 1, 2010 by Minister Alex Attwood.
2. Clanmil Housing is a leading provider of affordable housing in Northern Ireland. It currently owns and manages over 2,300 properties throughout Northern Ireland, providing both family and specialist homes for people in housing need.
3. Media enquiries to Ciara McGuigan on 028 9082 9497 or 07792150486. Out of office hours please contact Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.