Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster has led a sod turning ceremony to begin construction of a new Innovation Growth Centre at Omagh Enterprise Company (OEC).

The new facility has the potential to create around 200 new jobs. When constructed, the new high-tech centre will form an integral part of the Irish Central Border Areas Network’s (ICBAN) Innovation Enterprise Programme (IEP). It will also, provide a technology focused business environment to support growth companies and allow progression from OEC's Technology Incubation & Resource Centre which was opened in 2005. The IEP which began in September 2010, has been supported with nearly £2.3million of financial assistance from European Union’s INTERREG IVA Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). Speaking at Omagh Enterprise Company, Arlene Foster said: "The sod turning ceremony marks the official start of construction works of the exciting new technology enabled Innovation Growth Centre.

-- Advertisement --

"I am especially pleased that we have been able to provide just over £2million towards the project through the INTERREG Programme. When completed, this new centre will provide the region with high quality, technology focused workspace which will complement the existing provision here at Omagh Enterprise Company.

"Job creation and the stimulation of private enterprise are crucial in driving forward our economic recovery in Northern Ireland. Projects like this, which create jobs, grow businesses and capitalise on our existing skills and infrastructure base in Northern Ireland, are particularly welcome."

(CD)