Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie, has announced a further years funding of £250,000 for the 'Laganside Events Grant' scheme.

This funding stream by the Department for Social Development makes a major contribution to supporting arts and cultural activities in the Cathedral Quarter area of Belfast.

Commenting on this further funding the Minister said: "The continuation of the 'Laganside Events Grant' will further benefit an already excellent arts and cultural programme and provide access for all to high calibre and innovative theatre, music and exhibitions.

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"The funding will further promote the Laganside riverfront and Cathedral Quarter as a dynamic, vibrant area within the city centre."

The Laganside Events Grant is aimed at supporting events that contribute to the regeneration of the Laganside area, encouraging local involvement and community and business participation and helping attract visitors to the area.

Ms Ritchie's latest announcement comes after the formation of a Cathedral Quarter Focus Group, headed up by a new Cathedral Quarter Development Manager.

The group has been assigned to oversea regeneration in the area as well as lobbying government departments on behalf of the fledgling city district.

The development manager is based within Belfast City Centre Management, and is post funded by the DSD for two years.

See: Minister Meets 'Thriving' Cathedral Quarter's Manager

(PR/JM)