Past, present and future of shared neighbourhood unveiled by Ritchie

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie today unveiled a new piece of artwork at the entrance to a shared neighbourhood in Ballymoney.

The new entrance feature, incorporating four pieces of art work by artist Catherine Gallagher, depicts the Castle area of Ballymoney throughout the years and declares the estate as a shared neighbourhood.

The Shared Neighbourhood Programme was launched by Minister Ritchie in August 2008. It is a three year pilot programme aimed at supporting and encouraging 30 shared neighbourhoods across Northern Ireland.

Margaret Ritchie said: “When I launched the New Housing Agenda, back in 2008, I envisaged providing housing solutions that would bring people together rather than keep them apart. The commitment of the Castle area residents in creating an inclusive community, based on mutual respect, supports my vision.”

A shared neighbourhood is an area where people live with others regardless of religion or race, where it is safe, welcoming to all, and threatening to no-one.

Minister Ritchie added: “Today is a wonderful testimony to the enthusiasm and sense of community within the Castle area. However developing communities like Castle Street requires a partnership approach. I would, therefore, like to acknowledge the International Fund for Ireland’s financial support for the Shared Neighbourhood Programme which is delivered on the ground by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.

“The strength of the Shared Neighbourhood Programme is that it is an initiative inspired and led by local communities. Communities are both the driving force and key to the success of this Programme.”

The Castle Street area was selected to participate in Phase 2 of the Shared Neighbourhood Programme in recognition of the good relations ongoing in the area, and the commitment of the community to live together in an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding. The project has been developed by the local community in conjunction with Supporting Communities Northern Ireland.

Notes to editors:

1. The Shared Neighbourhood Programme was launched in August 2008 with the aim of developing 30 shared neighbourhoods over a three period. To date 16 neighbourhoods have already publicly declared their preference to become truly shared neighbourhoods.
2. Media enquiries to Fiona Nelson on 028 9082 9454 or 07816 157480. Out of office hours please contact Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
3. The department have provided funding of £2,628 through the ‘Small Pockets of Deprivation’ (SPOD) programme which is delivered on the ground through the Housing Executive.