Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has announced planning permission for Northern Ireland's first RADAR (Risk Avoidance and Danger Awareness Resource) which will include a road crossing, bus, train, car, house, police station, court room, dark alleyway, farm scenario and park scene.

The innovative new facility will open at Harbour Court East Belfast, in September 2014, creating three new jobs and 20 part-time jobs. It will provide first class interactive safety focused experiences for children and young people up to the age of 24 from across the province.

The centre will feature key issues of fire, road, water, farm, travel and personal safety are covered along with vandalism, drugs and alcohol, consequences of crime, anti-social behaviour, environmental responsibilities and what to do in an emergency.

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Primary Six and Primary Seven children will experience dangerous situations and scenarios within a risk free environment. They will have an opportunity to learn ways in which everyday hazards can be prevented, avoided or managed. Young adults between the ages of 16 and 24 years will be able to explore issues around personal safety and social responsibility along with an insight into the consequence of actions.

RADAR is the result of a multi agency partnership headed up by the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service.

Mr Durkan said: "This facility will play a vital role in the safety of our children. RADAR will become a crucial resource where children and young people will be taught vital life skills that will remain with them throughout their lives. I am particularly passionate about this scheme as it promotes strategies that help children and young people deal with emergency and dangerous situations in a safe and secure environment.

"I'm certain that children and young people who visit this virtual village will never forget the valuable lessons learnt.

"I have been encouraged to see that my officials have worked proactively with the applicant to assist them in selecting an appropriate site and to consider issues likely to arise. This decision, like a number I have announced recently, has been turned round quickly. This shows the planning system can and is delivering a better environment and stronger economy for the community."

(CD/JP)