Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie, was in Dungannon today to visit a number of Department supported projects.

Following a visit to EAGA, the company that manages the Department for Social Development’s Warm Homes Scheme, the Minister visited Dungannon West Renewal’s development at Ballysaggart Business Park.

Work is ongoing on an extension to the business park at Beech Valley Way. When complete, it will comprise of over 30,000 square feet of commercial workspace and community facilities. During her tour the Minister met members of Dungannon West Renewal, South Tyrone Empowerment Programme and Ballygawley Road Community Association.

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DSD is contributing £127,000 to the extension work under the Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy.

Ms Ritchie commented: "The Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy seeks to ensure that people living in disadvantaged areas enjoy a quality of life that is just as good as anywhere else in Northern Ireland. One of its main aims is to encourage economic activity. Schemes such as this at Ballysaggart are typical of what we are trying to achieve, giving local people the opportunity, tools and confidence to implement their business ideas. The Board of Dungannon West Renewal are to be congratulated for their tireless efforts to make the project happen."

It is anticipated that work will be complete around January 2008, providing employment opportunities for approximately 12 people.

(JM)