The funding, provided by the Department for Social Development’s Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund to the Newry and Mourne Enterprise Agency, will be used to provide a new roof on the WIN Business Centre and to refurbish the conference facilities.
Margaret Ritchie said: “The WIN Business centre is an excellent example of how local people can come together to address the problems associated with economic downturn.
“Founded in the early 1970’s when the rate of unemployment in Newry was the highest in Europe, the centre has gone from strength to strength and has made a massive contribution towards the regeneration of Newry. It has gone through a number of expansions and now provides accommodation for 70 businesses employing around 400 people.”
The Minister highlighted the deterioration of the original premises the outdated conference facilities and a number of business units that were no longer fit for purpose.
Margaret Ritchie continued saying: “This project will involve the provision of a new roof on the original WIN building along with the refurbishment of the conference facilities and the upgrading of the training rooms. It will ensure the long term sustainability of 20 units, providing an opportunity for small indigenous businesses to trade, develop and flourish.”
Welcoming news of the investment the Chairman of the Newry and Mourne Enterprise Agency, John McMahon said: “The WIN Business Centre is a classic example of how a local community can mobilise to triumph over adversity. The Agency now provides a range of facilities from premises to business advice for small businesses in the area. This project is a clear demonstration of the Minister’s support for our activities and we thank her for her assistance.”
Margaret Ritchie concluded by paying tribute to the Newry Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership for their support saying: “This project clearly demonstrates what can be achieved through working in partnership with government and local authorities. The funding will help create employment opportunities within the Newry Neighbourhood Renewal Area and will make a significant contribution to the economic regeneration of this area.”
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.
2. 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;
3. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
