A new improved Women’s Centre for the Ballymurphy area of West Belfast was officially opened today.

The £350,000 refurbishment was financed by the Department for Social Development (DSD) Belfast Regeneration Office under the Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy, and includes £223,000 for salary and running costs.

The Centre’s premises on the Springfield Road now has tailor-made facilities, including up-to-date therapy rooms, training rooms and office space.

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Speaking at the official opening, Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie, said: “The Management Committee has successfully established Ballymurphy Women’s Centre as a vital part of this community. Members are working to break the cycle of decline in the Upper Springfield/Whiterock area by providing information and support to local people. This makes the Centre a valued partner in implementing Government’s Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy; through which we are working closely with disadvantaged communities across the North to improve their quality of life.”

Ballymurphy Women’s Centre Chairperson, Ann McGrath, said: ''The parents, children and staff are all thrilled with the huge difference made to our new premises as a result of DSD’s funding. The refurbishment has made our surroundings much more pleasant and we are all looking forward to delivering new and better services in the future."

(LC/SP)