Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) Chairman Brian Rowntree has lauded the efforts local people in taking the first steps to transform their Portrush housing estate.

During February 2007 the NIHE's Research Department conducted a detailed survey of Dhu Varren residents, which received a 73% response.

The NIHE said the research provided much needed detailed quantitative data for the estate.

In order to gather more qualitative data residents were provided with an opportunity to visit the community house and comment on a range of issues relating to community life in Dhu Varren.

An area of priority which emerged from the consultation exercise was the general image of the estate and how people felt about living there, according to the NIHE.

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Groundwork NI provided professional expertise and worked with Dhu Varren Community Action Team to make a more positive environmental impact.

Works included a new entrance sign, welcoming visitors to the estate.

Speaking at the launch of the new Dhu Varren estate entrance features, NIHE Chairman Brian Rowntree said: "This is a special day for the people living in this community. The completion of this project marks an important milestone in the regeneration of Dhu Varren.

"Under the guidance and leadership of Development Worker, Angela Young, and Dhu Varren Community Action Team Chairman Christopher Dallat you have already achieved a great deal.

"This is a key ingredient in the recipe for future success. Education, health, justice, local authority and housing are the key players of regeneration.

"I want to pledge the Housing Executive’s continued support to help you realise your vision for Dhu Varrenm," added Mr Rowntree.

Christopher Dallat said: "I hope the future sees continued partnership working between our group and all interagency members in our efforts to improve our estate."

(PR/JM)