Statistical news release – Small area population estimates 2008 released

Between mid-2001 and mid-2008 the number of people living in Northern Ireland is estimated to have increased by 86,000 people (5.1%). The size of the population has increased from 1.689million in 2001 to 1.775million in 2008. The new small area figures relate to 890 small areas across Northern Ireland (see note 2).

In general the population has shown little change in the centre of urban areas. In contrast population growth is seen in the suburban areas on the outskirts of towns and cities (e.g. in Derryaghy and Mallusk). Dungannon Local Government District has seen the largest increase over the last seven years at 16% growth. Small areas within Dungannon have increased by larger amounts over the last seven years.
A map for all areas is attached.

Table 1 lists the areas which have shown the largest increases in population between 2001 and 2008. The new population figures were created as part of the work to produce the new measure of Multiple Deprivation in Northern Ireland. Full results and a short report can be found on the NISRA website.

Notes for editors:

1. The estimates relate to the usually resident population of Northern Ireland including Her Majesty's Forces stationed here.
2. The small areas, known as Super Output Areas, were created for the 2005 Multiple Deprivation Measure. They were designed to be homogenous and relatively equal in population size. The areas relate to electoral wards or subdivisions of wards. There are 890 Super Output Areas across Northern Ireland.
3. More detailed statistics can be accessed on the NISRA website.
4. A full paper with a description of the methodology and further analysis of small area population estimates will be published later in the Summer.
5. Media enquiries to DFP Communications Office on 028 9052 7374 or 028 9052 7375. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
6. Further information on the statistics provided in this publication can be obtained from NISRA Customer Services at: Telephone: 028 9034 8160, Fax: 028 9034 8161, Email: census.nisra@dfpni.gov.uk.