Title :: Regenerating Rathfriland

Programme :: Capital Regeneration

Commenced :: November 2005

Value :: £192,559

Measure :: 3.1 Local Economic Initiatives for Developing the Social Economy

Aim :: Provide capital support for the regeneration of a derelict building in the rural town of Rathfriland linked to the social economy.

Overview ::
Under our programme for capital regeneration we aim to fund the regeneration of a derelict building in Rathfriland town centre. Rathfriland Regeneration Company, a social economy organisation, has applied to renovate the derelict building and bring it back into business use. The project would provide letable space in the form of retail units, office units and possibly flats. Rathfriland Regeneration Company would then rent these units and make the project sustainable. The project has been approved by The Bridge Partnership and an economic appraisal has also been approved. It is envisaged contractors will go on site by Easter 2006 and the project will be completed by October 2006.

Objectives ::

• Capital investment in the social economy providing a lasting legacy and underpinning the long-term viability of the sector.
• Reduction of negative image of areas.
• Increased pride in local community.
• Appropriate services provided on the basis of local need.

Outputs ::

• Refurbishment of derelict building.
• Regeneration of business property.
• Provision of two retail units.
• Provision of two office units.
• Provision of two flats for living accommodation.
• Regeneration of a rural main street.
• Provision of a neutral venue.
• Networking opportunities.
• Catalyst for other development.

Quote ::
Regenerating derelict town properties makes Rathfriland a more attractive place to live, work and visit which in turn will bring much needed economic and social benefits to our local community. Dr John Shannon Chairperson, Rathfriland Regeneration Company

Contact ::
Elaine Gillespie
Programme Manager, The Bridge Partnership
T: 028 4066 0644