A major regeneration scheme for north Belfast took one step forward yesterday, as Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie put a draft equality report out for public consultation.

The draft Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) is focused on the redevelopment of Crumlin Road Gaol and Girdwood Park, a vast area earmarked for shared social housing.

Minister Ritchie said: "I am pleased to publish for consultation a draft EQIA on the Crumlin Road Gaol/Girdwood Park area. This has been completed in consultation with a wide range of representative groups and the communities across North Belfast.

"The draft EQIA makes a number of proposals on how this tremendous site can be developed as a shared future space. I would encourage everyone interested to respond to the findings, as I know there are strongly held views on every side."

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"This is a wonderful development site. It has the historic asset of Crumlin Road Gaol at one end and the 20 acre Girdwood site at the other."

"I wish to see the regeneration of the area contributing to the creation of a vibrant shared space where all communities can live, work and socialise. It is with this vision in mind that I announced that the Department will be undertaking a full Equality Impact Assessment. I want as many people as possible to have their say."

The draft EQIA consultation period will run from 30 October 2008 until 21 January 2009. Copies of the draft EQIA consultation document can be obtained from the Department for Social Development in Belfast.

The consultation will also include a number of public meetings.

The scheme has faced opposition from a number of local representatives, who have insisted both communities in north Belfast are not yet ready to live together.

Nationalist MLAs have made calls for urgent action to tackle disadvantaged housing areas on the Falls Road and New Lodge.

(PR/JM)