Arts Council of Northern Ireland ‘regenerates’ local communities with £2.4 million

IFACCA/Artshub, 24 February 2005,United Kingdom

The Arts Council of Northern Ireland has announced funding of £2.4 million to spearhead an arts-driven regeneration of socially and economically depressed areas. The funds, made available through the Arts Council’s new Lottery-funded ‘Art of Regeneration’ programme, in partnership with the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, will enable local authorities throughout Northern Ireland to develop and deliver site-specific arts projects that target issues of concern – such as care for the environment, anti-social behaviour and multiculturalism. ‘We developed the Art of Regeneration programme to encourage our local authorities to exploit the rich contribution that the arts can make at local community level,’ admits Noirin McKinney, Director of Arts Development at the Arts Council. ‘Unlocking the creative potential of groups not traditionally active in the arts will offer fresh positive experiences and creative solutions to those difficulties experienced at a neighbourhood level. The arts projects will help to change attitudes and connect people across the various barriers that divide us.’ The first crop of regions to benefit from the funding (identifies as those with the greatest immediate need) are: Craigavon (£336,681), Derry City (£180,254), Moyle (£147,215), Ballymoney (£168,450), Antrim (£201,750), North Down (£187,000), Strabane (£248,000), Fermanagh (£339,300) and Newtownabbey (£221,350). Initial projects range from functional public art in children’s play areas made out of recycled materials; traditional music events to enhance cross-community activity; and art and safety projects. Local communities in Belfast will also benefit from the scheme, with funding recipients announced in advance of Belfast’s centenary cultural celebrations in 2006. It’s all part of a long-term strategy from the Arts Council and its other agency partners. ‘There are no quick-fix solutions to our endemic social problems,’ said McKinney. ‘Effective regeneration requires a sustained, joined-up approach to delivery. Consequently, the Art of Regeneration programme supports arts projects that will normally run over a four-year period and which forge new partnerships between a wide range of public bodies and community groups. This innovative collaborative approach will provide the model and act as the spur for further sustainable developmental activity at local community level.' 'The legacy for all of us will be an increased level of social and cultural exchange, leading to tolerance and respect, civic pride, local empowerment, and a safer, more prosperous Northern Ireland.’ For further information, CLICK HERE.

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