High specification upgrade works have been completed at one of Belfast's most prolific tower blocks.

The £1.1m improvement scheme was carried out at Divis Tower by the Housing Executive.

In recent years the block has benefited from a 24-hour concierge service, the latest work on the eighteenth and nineteenth floor saw the flats total refurbished and reinstated as social housing.

New kitchens, bathrooms, heating systems, windows and internal doors were installed in the homes.

General improvements were made to internal hallways, lobbies, and stairways, as well as the external façade of Divis Tower and the women’s homeless crash facility, which got a facelift.

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A new roof area has also been created, where a plant house and water storage tanks are located.

Extensive landscaping has been carried out on the grounds and a new community garden is has also being provided for residents.

Housing Executive Chief Executive Paddy McIntyre said: "The history of Divis Tower has been well documented so it's good to be here today to see at first hand the benefits of this latest scheme – particularly the 18th and 19th floors which were out of our ownership for around 20 years.

"The Tower is entering a new era and the improvements will ensure that it remains a very popular place to live. With the reinstatement of the 18th and 19th floors we had the added bonus of an extra eight flats for people on the waiting list for the area" he said.

John Leathem, long term resident and member of the West Belfast Housing Community Network, said: "I've lived in Divis Tower for over 20 years and I really love it. Not only is it one of West Belfast's most prominent landmarks but residents enjoy some of the best views in Belfast."

(PR/BMcC)