Visiting the Centre, which was bought by DSD at a cost of £385,000, the Minister said that the building will provide a range of services of great benefit to local communities:
“This new centre is unique in Northern Ireland. Using Groundwork’s experience of working with local people, it has established itself as a key resource for many communities and voluntary groups. It is already playing a vital role in the implementation of the Neighbourhood Renewal strategy - our main strategy for tackling deprivation.”
“The Centre will provide training facilities as well as information and advice on how to regenerate local areas. It will help communities to help themselves and regenerate the areas they live in.”
Emphasising the important contribution made by Groundwork, the Minister said, “Groundwork has extensive experience of working with disadvantaged communities. This new Centre will help them extend the excellent work they already do in areas of social need.
“I hope that the Resource Centre will become a hub for all those involved in regeneration and social development – and above all help in the fight against deprivation throughout the North.”
The Director of Groundwork NI, Mary McKee said “With the opening of the Regeneration Resource Centre, Groundwork NI now has the capacity to offer courses and seminars to a diverse range of groups including communities, students of regeneration and policy makers. It is hoped that all those involved in the Neighbourhood Renewal process will make full use of this modern meeting and training facility, along with other groups working to build a sustainable future for all communities in Northern Ireland”
Notes to Editors:
- Funding for the purchase of Groundwork NI’s Office Accommodation and the development of the Regeneration Resource Centre has been provided by DSD, Community Relations Council and the Community Relations Unit within OFMDFM.
- The new facility includes 2 flexible meeting rooms or one large conference space with a relaxed breakout area and is fitted out with state of the art multi-media resources including video conferencing. It has been open for business from May 2007 and has hosted a number of successful community and training events.
- Groundwork NI is a leading not-for-profit organisation working in partnership with some of Northern Ireland’s most marginalised communities. Established in 1991, they have 14 years’ experience in planning, developing and delivering community-based environmental regeneration projects. The organisation has a growing portfolio of more than 120 projects throughout Northern Ireland and is working with the County Leitrim Partnership in the border area of the Republic.
- For further information, contact the DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9496. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
