23 May 2003
BELFAST GETS NEW CITY CENTRE WALKWAY
A landscaped walkway that transforms the appearance of a run-down area on the edge of Belfast’s city centre was officially opened today by John McGrath, Deputy Secretary at the Department for Social Development.
College Walk, located at College Avenue and Kings Street Mews, was created in a £50,000 project led by the department’s Belfast Regeneration Office in partnership with the Roads Service, Belfast City Council and SHAC, the student housing association. Sculpted steel silhouettes by artist Betty Newman-Maguire give a living feel to College Walk. It also features open grassed areas together with existing and newly planted trees to replace the previously screened area which was a focus for anti-social behaviour. Speaking at the ceremony today, Mr McGrath said: "This scheme is an excellent example of working in partnership both within and beyond the Public Sector. It was born out of a need to deter vandalism and anti-social behaviour that the local community and businesses suffered. "The appearance of the city centre, together with its cleanliness and safety, can make a lasting impression on visitors. This scheme portrays a positive image of the city both for visitors and the local community." NOTES TO EDITORS:
- The College Walk project cost approximately £50,000, of which £43,000 was contributed by DSD and £7,000 by Roads Service.
- The scheme was designed and supervised by Alan McHaffie, of BCC Parks and Amenities with landscaping by Bloomingdale Nurseries. Northern Ireland Electricity contributed to the sandblasting and painting of the wall on which the steel silhouettes are mounted.
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