Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has welcomed the appointment of Brian Delaney as independent chair to the newly formed Development Trust Board for the Paisley Park sports facility in the greater Shankill area of west Belfast.

The Paisley Park complex has been in public ownership since 1990, when it was acquired as part of the Springvale Development Scheme with a view to developing it as part of the failed Springvale Enterprise and Educational Complex. Originally associated with the Mackie's Factory and Albert Foundry, it has traditionally provided sport and recreation facilities for people from the greater Shankill and north Belfast.

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The formation of the board and the appointment of Mr Delaney is a result of a comprehensive facilitation programme carried out by Development Trust NI with the support of the Department for Social Development (DSD). The aim of the board is to explore a sound model for governance and sustainability, prior to the formation of a Community Interest Company that will seek to achieve a Community Asset Transfer from DSD.

Minister McCausland said: "Paisley Park is an important and valuable asset for local communities. The establishment of a Community Interest Company is a challenging task and I want to thank Brian for taking on this key role. He has the necessary experience and academic knowledge required to lead the group going forward and to ensure it has every chance of success.

"My Department has been supportive of the work carried out to date and I will continue to ensure that the Department is committed to making this sporting facility available to the whole community."

(CD/H)