A £45million Urban Villages initiative, which aims to transform deprived areas in Northern Ireland has been launched.

The money will also be used improve good relations and develop areas which have suffered economic and social challenges.

First Minister Arlene Foster said: "These Frameworks are testimony to the Executive’s ambition for Urban Village areas and our commitment to deliver positive and lasting change in Northern Ireland. Shaped by local communities, they reflect their priorities and desire to realise the full potential of the people and places where they live.

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"The Frameworks identify opportunities and provide a clear vision for a comprehensive and 'joined up' approach in support of good relations and Programme for Government outcomes.

"The Northern Ireland Executive is delivering a £2.6million capital programme across five areas this year and supporting community-based projects to enhance local partnerships and better ways of working together.

"As First Minister, I talk about my positive ambition for Northern Ireland and I believe that initiatives such as these will help communities to grow and work together."

(CD/MH)