Sinn Féin councillor Steven Corr has welcomed the announcement that the Department of the Environment has approved a further £220,000 to deal with derelict buildings in Belfast.

The West Belfast councillor and Chair of the Heath & Environmental Services Committee at the City Hall said: "The council are aware over recent years that due to the economic downturn the problem of derelict, dilapidated and ruinous properties has increased dramatically.

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"These properties have led to an increase in anti-social behaviour, fly tipping, impact on adjoining properties, pests and increased dangers to those around the buildings.

"The council's Building Control Service has served notices on the owners of dilapidated properties and sites, which are deemed seriously detrimental to the local area.

"Using the £500K funding supplied by the Minister for the Environment in 2012 work has taken place on nearly 150 buildings. This was a combination of demolition, hoarding and cosmetic works.

"I commend the partnership working between the council and the minister in tackling the serious problem of dereliction."

(CD/MH)