Much needed regeneration to breathe new life into Lower Shankill - Attwood

Social Development Minister, Alex Attwood, today launched extensive plans to regenerate the Lower Shankill.

The Minister unveiled the Housing Executive’s comprehensive plan for the area during a meeting with local community at the Living Hope Church on Shankill Parade.

The multi-million pound plan could see up to 100 new homes being built in the area over the next few years, along with extensive environmental improvements being undertaken.

Alex Attwood said: "I know that the people of the Lower Shankill estate have come through difficulties and you feel that your needs have been bypassed. I want the local people to know that they will not be overlooked. That is why I am here. That is the commitment I make.

"This plan for the Lower Shankill will provide more and better housing. It will improve the environment and create attractive open spaces which will go some distance in breathing life back into the area.

"It is important that local people are consulted on these plans because they know better than anyone what will work in their own area. I ask them today to get involved and make their views heard to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, to the Department for Social Development, to me. I would like a round table with you in a month or two to continue our conversation.

"This investment represents a commitment by my Department to regenerate the Lower Shankill, making it a better, safer and healthier place to live. It will also provide a greater choice of new housing for those who want to live in the community and will offer affordable housing opportunities to help people on the road to home ownership."

The plans unveiled at the meeting are now available through the Housing Executive’s Shankill office and will be delivered to every home in the area.

Notes to editors:

1. To view the Lower Shankill masterplan and a map of proposed developments go to: http://www.nihe.gov.uk .
2. Helm Housing has been chosen by the Housing Executive to take forward the social and affordable housing in the area.
3. Twelve apartments are currently under construction, fronting the Shankill Road between Shankill Parade and Boundary Walk. They are due for completion in 2011/2012.
4. The Living Hope Church is situated at 25 Shankill Parade, Belfast BT13 1DY.
5. View picture of Minister visiting Lower Shankill