Prestigious UK Regeneration Award For Mid-Ulster Towns

6 December 2006
PRESTIGIOUS UK REGENERATION AWARD FOR MID-ULSTER TOWNS

Working together has resulted in two Mid-Ulster towns winning an award from the British Urban Regeneration Association (BURA).
At a gala ceremony in London recently The Drapers' Towns Partnership from Draperstown and Moneymore in Co Londonderry was among only eight winners in the awards for 'Best Practice in Regeneration'. An independent assessment panel considered a wide range of entries from across the UK. Winners were required to clearly demonstrate their track record in making a positive economic contribution to their area, inspiring local people, encouraging community spirit and acting as a catalyst for further regeneration.
The Department for Social Development was one of the awards sponsors. Minister for Social Development David Hanson MP congratulated Draper's Towns Partnership on its success, saying: "It is only fitting that the tremendous regeneration work carried out in Moneymore and Draperstown has been recognised by BURA. The Partnership has initiated and forged strong links between both towns and I wish it every success with any future plans to benefit the local communities it represents."
The Drapers' Towns Partnership has been working since 1999 to address major dereliction problems in both towns. It has managed a number of projects supported by funders including the Department for Social Development, International Fund for Ireland and Townscape Heritage Initiative, such as:

The refurbishment of the Manor House in Moneymore;

Improvements to the town centres including new paving, landscaping and street lighting and furniture; and

refurbishing the Corn Store in Draperstown.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

BURA was formed in 1990 to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas, experience and information for the emerging regeneration sector within the UK.

The BURA Awards for Best Practice in Regeneration began in 1992. The Awards seek to identify and promote projects that are making a positive contribution to economic regeneration, acting as catalysts for wider regeneration and creating a self-sustaining momentum with long-term benefits for local communities. More information is available at www.bura.org.uk

Photo caption -Michael McGuckin, Chairman of The Drapers' Towns Partnership (centre) is pictured receiving the award from (left) Henry Johnston, Regional Development Office, Department for Social Development and (right) Prof Peter Roberts, Chair of Assessment Panel.

For further media enquiries please contact Kathryn Campbell, Department for Social Development Information Office, 028 9082 9078.

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