Stormont Regeneration Minister Margaret Ritchie has welcomed the start of work on a new football pitch at Cathedral Road in Armagh.

Mr Ritchie performed a sod cutting ceremony on site for the £275,000 project which, when completed, will provide a much needed recreation facility for Cathedral Road residents.

The project is being jointly funded by a contribution of £175,000 from the Department’s Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund and £100,000 from Armagh City and District Council.

Speaking at the sod cutting ceremony the Minister said: "I am pleased to be involved in this major project which represents an excellent example of central and local government working together to deliver benefits for the community.

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"This project represents a further DSD commitment to the Cathedral Road complex adding to previous projects to extend the community facilities and provide play facilities for children of all ages. This investment will encourage safe recreation and promote the health and well-being of our young people."

The project involves the replacement of an outdated and poor quality tarmac/shale facility with a state-of-the-art third generation playing surface.

Minister Ritchie added: "Sporting organisations play a major, and in many cases unsung role, in helping us to meet our social and community renewal objectives.

"Through their activities they help to foster a culture of community involvement and volunteering.

"They generate a sense of pride and identity within the areas in which they operate, and introduce discipline within the young people with whom they engage. They also contribute to the promotion of good health and well-being of all those who participate in sporting activity."

(PR)