Extensive restoration and new building work at one of the top, multi-disciplinary community art resource centres in Northern Ireland has been given ministerial support.

The NI Arts and Culture Minister Gregory Campbell gave his backing to the initiative when he visited The Playhouse, Londonderry to view progress.

Commenting on the restoration and new build work Minister Campbell said: "My department has contributed significant funding to the refurbishment and upgrading of this historic building.

"Through this investment, we are not only helping support and continually develop arts and culture in Londonderry, but we are also contributing to the economic and social development of the North West.

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"The arts play a vital role in the cultural and economic life of Northern Ireland and help to bring in tourists and further investment."

The Minister continued: "I wanted to see first hand the work in progress on site and view the recently installed staircase which leads to magnificent views of the city.

"When complete, The Playhouse will boast impressive modern facilities including a new box office, an upgraded theatre, disabled access and new catering facilities which will meet everyone’s needs," he commented.

Wishing The Playhouse project well, the Minister said: "I look forward to visiting again when the new facility is completed in early 2009.

"I trust that the wider community will benefit from this impressive project and it will provide more opportunities for our young people to get involved in the arts."

(BMcC/KMcA)