03/10/2011

Former Belfast Mill Honour Helps Employment

A former linen mill in Northern Ireland has bagged an award for its regeneration that took nearly 15 years.

Conway Mill, on the Falls Road, fell into neglect and vandalism during The Troubles before the regeneration project started in 1996.

The Conway Mill Preservation Trust was presented with the award at the Regeneration and Renewal Awards in London last night.

According to a report by the BBC they were honored for their 'best use of a heritage building in a regeneration project'.

Northern Ireland's Deputy First Minster, Martin McGuinness, officially opened the revamped building in 2010.

Inside the building there are 16 business units, artist's studios and space for community groups.

Meanwhile plans are in place for 100 jobs to be created over the next four years.

Jim Neeson, the Chairman of the Conway Mill Preservation said: "For the mill, the trustees, committees and local community, it is fantastic for the project to be recognised".

(LB/BMcC)

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