The newly-built Social Economy Village in west Belfast can help to stimulate economic growth in the local area, the Enterprise Minister has said.

Arlene Foster welcomed the official opening of the new 13,200 square foot development in west Belfast today.

The Social Economy Village was developed by Work West at a total cost of £1,385,876.

"The creation of six new workspace units at the Social Economy Village has the potential to create up to 36 jobs. It can also help encourage local entrepreneurship and stimulate economic growth in the local area," said Minister Foster.

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"The development will provide much needed regeneration within the local community, helping to address the social and economic disadvantages experienced in west Belfast in recent years."

Ms Foster said she believes the continued growth and success of social economy enterprises must be encouraged, particularly during the current economic downturn.

The workspace development, off the Glen Road in west Belfast, is one of over 40 projects across Northern Ireland, set up to create new jobs in deprived areas by providing flexible workspace units for new and expanding businesses.

(PR/JM)