PEACE IV Re-imaging and Regeneration Programme Launches in Newtownhamilton
As a delivery partner on the PEACE IV Programme, Newry Mourne and Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) are implementing Re-imaging and Regeneration projects in 10 areas across the district.
These projects are supported by the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Newtownhamilton area is one of the first to develop their Reimaging and Regeneration Programme.
Its main objective is the creation of a more cohesive society through an increased provision of shared spaces and services at a grass roots level. This involves the local residents taking ownership of how they can maximise the usage of shared spaces within their communities and help engage more people through the removal of psychological barriers.
Attending the launch of Newtownhamilton’s Reimaging and Regeneration Programme was Councillor Terry Andrews, Newry, Mourne and Down PEACE IV Partnership Chairperson.
He said: “This programme will provide cross community contact opportunities to help build capacity within disengaged communities, which will lead to the creation of a shared vision and the removal of psychological barriers in local neighbourhoods.
“I am delighted that in total 10 communities across our district can access this programme as it will offer children and adults an opportunity to create and develop relationships and build self-esteem.
“Some programmes will provide a means to revitalise a disenfranchised community, and some will offer people a place to express themselves through a visual means.”
Ita Gibney, Chairperson of Newtownhamilton Community Association said: “For a long time Newtownhamilton has been overshadowed by the history of the Troubles.
“However, the community of Newtownhamilton has always been strong, we work together in order to make our village the lovely, welcoming place it is today.
“We are very grateful to the PEACE IV Programme as this project will create additional opportunities for us to engage further with the local community through activities, workshops and study visits, which we otherwise would not have the resources to do.”
Match-funding for the project has been provided by the Executive Office in Northern Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development in Ireland.
- The Special EU Programmes Body is a North/South Implementation Body sponsored by the Department of Finance in Northern Ireland and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in Ireland.
- It is responsible for managing two EU Structural Funds Programmes, PEACE IV and INTERREG VA which are designed to enhance cross-border co-operation, promote reconciliation and create a more peaceful and prosperous society.
- The Programmes operate within a clearly defined area including Northern Ireland, the Border Region of Ireland and in the case of INTERREG VA, Western Scotland.
- The PEACE IV Programme has a value of €270 million and aims to promote peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland and the Border Region of Ireland.
- For more information on the SEUPB please visit www.seupb.eu
Newry Mourne and Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership
Working to help make communities safer and to ensure the voices of local people are heard on policing and community safety issues, the PCSP aims to empower communities to work in partnership to develop solutions that will help tackle crime, the fear of crime and anti-social behaviour.
The PCSP is made up of 10 Councillors and 9 Independent members as well as representatives from the PSNI, NIFRS, Housing Executive, Youth Justice Agency, PBNI, EANI and Southern and South Eastern Health and Social Care Trusts. The current Chair is Cllr Alan Lewis.
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