Ritchie funds £1.2 Million toward new Shankill Pharmacy and Health Centre

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie, today announced £1,200,000 funding towards the construction of a pharmacy and new health centre facilities on the Shankill Road, Belfast.

The £4million scheme, by a local developer Mr Colin Johnston of Clear Pharmacy, will bring much needed private sector investment to the Shankill area of the city.

Speaking about the announcement Minister Ritchie said: “I am pleased that my Department has been able to provide much needed financial support, under the Urban Development Grant Scheme, towards this high profile development. The pharmacy, medical surgeries, consultation rooms and car parking facilities will bring major environmental, social and economic benefits to this part of the Shankill Road.

“Much needed jobs will be provided both during the construction period and on completion of the scheme. This is an excellent example of government and the private sector working together to bring about the physical regeneration of the Shankill area of Belfast”

The project which will take 18 months to develop is due to commence on site within the next few months. The new Health Centre will complement the community based services which will be provided by the Wellbeing and Treatment Centre which is also being constructed on the Shankill Road.

Notes to Editors:

1. DSD, through its Belfast Regeneration Office, is contributing Urban Development Grant funding of £1,200,000 towards the development of the new £4million Health Centre on the Shankill Road, Belfast.
2. The developer is Mr Colin Johnston of Clear Pharmacy. Mr Johnston has wide experience of developments of this nature throughout Northern Ireland.
3. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.