20 September 2002
DODDS UNVEILS BRIGHT FUTURE FOR VILLAGE AREA
An imaginative new plan to revitalise the historic ‘Village’ area of South Belfast – one of the most disadvantaged areas in the city - was launched today by the Minister for Social Development, Nigel Dodds, MP, MLA.
The framework plan, which has been endorsed by the Greater Village Regeneration Trust, was funded jointly by the Belfast Regeneration Office of the Department for Social Development and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. It will be used as a basis for addressing the physical, social and economic regeneration of the area.
Mr Dodds said: "The Village area has suffered a significant decline over a number of years which has impacted on all areas of life. Thanks to the Trust and the views of the local community we now have a map for the way forward to a better future.
"Their involvement is very important as we wish to enable the community of the Village area to articulate its hopes and aspirations for the future.
"There are still formidable challenges to be met in the delivery of change and there is no quick fix. But we are determined to deliver solutions to the needs of the area that are practical, tangible and sustainable.
"The Greater Village Regeneration Trust deserves great credit for the efforts and imagination it has put into developing the plan. I look forward to continuing to work together with them in support of their efforts to reduce the physical, social and economic deprivation in the area."
NOTES TO EDITORS:
The Greater Village Regeneration Trust (GVRT) was set up as a subsidiary of South West Belfast Community Forum (SWBCF) and is made up of representatives from the community, voluntary and statutory sectors. The fundamental aim of GVRT is to embrace all aspects in relation to the regeneration needs of the Village area in South Belfast.
The Belfast Regeneration Office (BRO) through the South & East Team provided 50pc of the total cost of £47,400 in partnership with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) who provided the other 50pc towards the appointment of a consultant to take forward and prepare the proposed plan. The Paul Hogarth Company was appointed as the consultant and a steering group was set up to manage the project.
The Framework Plan was completed and endorsed by GVRT on 12 March 2002 and will now be used as a basis for the development of the Village area.
For further information contact Paula Bradshaw South Belfast Partnership Board, 028 9024 4070 or Susan McCarty Belfast Regeneration Office, South & East Team, 028 9045 6822.
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