Funding Boost For Brownlow Welcomed

A community facility in Brownlow, Craigavon, is set to receive a £300,000 funding boost.

The project will include refurbishment of the existing St Anthony's Centre and the addition of a new annex providing conference facilities and modern accommodation for youth groups.

Funding for the scheme is being provided by the Department for Social Development's Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund with NI Social Development Minister Alex Attwood commenting: "The refurbishment of St Anthony's Centre will be a good boost for people living in Brownlow. It will contribute to the sustainability of the centre and the community that use it. It will ensure that the Hall continues to provide a meeting place for the residents of the area to utilise and enjoy together."

The Minister (pictured) paid tribute to all of those involved in the development of the project Moyraverty Arts and Drama Society, the trustees of St Anthony's Parish and the Brownlow Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership Board and further commented: "One of the key factors in successfully tackling deprivation and assisting regeneration is through a partnership approach involving the public, private and community sectors.

"I recognise the important role which community representatives have to play as an equal partner in this process and I am committed to ensuring that local people have the capacity to contribute to the decision making process.

"Communities are the lifeblood of our towns and cities and I want our urban regeneration projects to deliver shared public space, places that people from all communities can access.

"Since 2005 DSD has provided funding of just under £3.7 million on a range of projects in the Brownlow Neighbourhood Renewal area. This clearly demonstrates the Department's commitment towards addressing the inequalities which exist in areas of disadvantage," he said.

(JG/GK)