Ritchie announces £47,000 funding for Cornagrade improvements

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie MLA has announced £47,000 funding for environmental improvements within the Cornagrade Estate in Enniskillen.

The investment from the DSD Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund will enable the following environmental improvements to be carried out within the Estate:-

• 13 car spaces in Riverside;
• eight car spaces in Carnmore Rise;
• assist the flow of traffic in both areas; and
• improve pedestrian safety.

Local residents were consulted on how the programme could create a safer area. The programme was also developed in partnership with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and Department for Regional Development’s Roads Service; who will manage the delivery of the project.

Margaret Ritchie said: “I want to improve the quality of life for people living within the Cornagrade Estate in the Enniskillen Neighbourhood Renewal Area by creating a safer, more welcoming area. The contribution of £47,000 to this project further demonstrates my determination to close the gap between those who live in disadvantaged areas and those who do not.

“I would also like to thank Northern Ireland Housing Executive, DRD Roads Service and Enniskillen Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership for their commitment in the planning and implementation of this project.”

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. 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.

2. Media enquires to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9496. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.