Minister announces neighbourhood renewal plan for Belfast

The need for integrated regeneration initiatives to tackle concentrations of multiple deprivation and social exclusion has never been greater, Social Development Minister, John Spellar has said.

Speaking following the publication of the final Implementation Plan for Neighbourhood Renewal in Belfast on Tuesday, Mr Spellar said the development of the final Implementation Plan involved extensive consultation and debate.

“The views and opinions expressed by key stakeholders, including the voluntary and community bodies and political parties, have played an important part in shaping this document which sets out the vision for Belfast,” the Minister said.

"The document provides the necessary spatial framework to help co-ordinate and connect the policies of a range of agencies that share a common concern for local development and regeneration.

"It highlights the need for Neighbourhood Action Plans to be developed and delivered within local areas, targeting those communities experiencing the most serious economic and social deprivation."

The final Plan has 13 Neighbourhood Renewal areas in Belfast - in Inner East Belfast, South West Belfast, Greater Shankill, Lower Falls/Clonard, Upper Springfield/Whiterock, Crumlin/ Ardoyne, Inner North Belfast, Inner South Belfast, Tullycarnet, Rathcoole, Lenadoon, Colin and Upper Ardoyne/Ligoniel.

(MB/SP)