DSD Minister Margaret Richie has welcomed the unveiling of several regeneration projects in south Belfast, targeted at economic development.

The Minister visited some of the projects, funded by her department's Neighbourhood Renewal scheme, under the direction of the South Belfast Partnership Board.

Ms Ritchie took a tour of Lower Crescent, Botanic and Bradbury Place and was provided with an overview of some of the regeneration and economic development work.

Emphasising the need for a joined up approach to regeneration activities, Minister Ritchie said: "What I have been told here today is another excellent example of how different Government Departments, Agencies, the private sector and local communities can come together to provide worthwhile projects that will enhance the lives of people in their area.

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"Neighbourhood Renewal is working and working well in South Belfast. My Department, through the Belfast Regeneration Office, has supported many vital jobs and projects in this area. This has helped improve the lives and opened up opportunities which did not exist for many people who live in the Neighbourhood Renewal Area’s of South Belfast."

The Minister encouraged all those involved in regeneration to focus on improving the lives of people who live in areas of multiple deprivations and not be distracted by the frustrations associated with processes and systems.

Chair of the South Belfast Partnership Board Cllr Ruth Patterson said: "My Board has been working hard with the Ministers Department to deliver many benefits to people in the less well off areas of South Belfast through the Neighbourhood Renewal Programme.

"The support of the Minister's Department is essential in ensuring effective development and renewal across the whole of South Belfast."

(PR/JM)