Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland and Education Minister John O'Dowd have announced a £880,000 refurbishment project for St Mary's Youth Club in Portadown.

On a visit to the club to mark the start of the project, Ministers heard about plans to create a new fit for purpose centre.

Speaking during his visit, Minister McCausland said: "Our young people are tomorrow’s leaders and parents. Supporting and encouraging them is strengthening the fabric for stronger communities. St Mary’s has been offering young people from the area a place to come together, build friendships and contribute to their community for many years. The fact that the club has done this in a 40 year old building with a leaking roof is testament to the commitment of both staff and the young people who make use of the facility.

-- Advertisement --

"I hope the investment demonstrates my commitment and that of the Northern Ireland Executive in supporting the work of St Mary’s and its contribution to young people. I know they plan to develop a new multi-media room, kitchen and social area, which will provide long needed space to expand the range of activities on offer. I wish them well with the project and look forward to a return visit to see the makeover complete."

The project, funded by the Department for Social Development and the Department of Education, will work in partnership with the St Mary’s Committee and the Portadown Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership Board.

The work involves the provision of:

• first floor extension to provide new office and multi-media room,

• new passenger lift,

• new roof over entire building,

• remodelling of existing entrance and reception office,

• new kitchen to social area,

• new wall, floor and ceiling finishes and

• new mechanical and electrical services installations including new boiler and heating system.

(CD/GK)