Work has begun on a £13 million regeneration project which will transform Newtownabbey Council's Mossley Mill headquarters.

The 7,000m2 project will see the refurbishment of a currently derelict part of the 19th Century four-storey Mill building as well as the construction of a new civic arts and cultural centre in the Mill courtyard.

Construction company Graham has been awarded the contract, and they were joined by architects Ostick and Williams as well as council officials for the official sod-cutting ceremony.

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The second phase of the scheme will see the introduction of a wealth of community activities including drama, art and local history and a state-of-the-art conference facility.

"The completion of the Mossley Mill site is not only a significant development in its own right, but particularly so in 2008 when we celebrate Newtownabbey's 50th Anniversary," Mayor Nigel Hamilton commented.

"It is important that buildings such as Mossley Mill that remind us so much of our industrial heritage are not lost to the community."

He concluded: "This phase of development will provide the community with excellent facilities that can be used by people of all ages and interests. I look forward to its completion."

It is understood the project will take 18 months to complete.

(JM)