Initiative aims to attract investment in Shantallow

An investment of up to £4 million could be attracted into the Greater Shantallow area of Londonderry by a regeneration initiative launched today by John Hunter, Permanent Secretary at the Department for Social Development.

The Outer North project was developed by the department’s North West Development Office and is based on a £1.6 million package from the Social Inclusion/Community Regeneration Executive Programme Fund.

Mr Hunter said: “This Outer North project puts local communities at the heart of the programmes involved and has been designed by local people for local people.

“The Greater Shantallow area has experienced many changes and encountered many social, economic and physical problems. These needed a holistic approach and a response from a range of public bodies and the local community.

“This funding will provide a range of new opportunities for the local community. Start-up support will be provided for local businesses, incubation units developed, assistance provided to tackle unemployment and additional health programmes undertaken to benefit all age groups.”

Darren Kirby, of the Greater Shantallow Area Partnership, added: “The Greater Shantallow Area Partnership is delighted to have secured resources from the Executive Programme Fund through the Integrated Development Operation for Outer North to provide support to local community groups.”

The programme, over a three-year period, will include facilities provided for up to 10,000 people to access new sports programmes and introduce Neighbourhood Wardens to the area. The North West Development Office will provide environmental improvements; additional play facilities and an Astroturf sports pitch.

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