£500k made available for community halls like arson-hit Salterstown OH

The First Minister was joined by Communities Minister Paul Givan and local DUP MLA Keith Buchanan for the announcement of £500k for community Halls, in Mid Ulster this morning (Wednesday, Oct 19).

The pilot programme was launched today to support minor works at such premises.

Mr Buchanan said: “It is widely recognized that many of these premises need support to undertake minor works to maintain and/or enhance their valuable contribution to the local community and wider society.

“Since being elected I have lobbied Ministers and government agencies to ensure that the necessary resources and support be made available to enable our organizations to build their capacity and help empower our community.

“Many organizations will benefit from this programme and those eligible will include church halls, orange halls and other halls and centres which are used for a range of community based activities.

“To be eligible, organizations must be a formally constituted or willing to become constituted, own their hall or hold a long term lease for the hall or be the organization responsible for operating the hall.

“The funding may be used for minor works including small scale refurbishment/ renovation works, alteration to mechanical and electrical services or general work to meet health and safety standards including CCTV, alarm systems security equipment and disability access.”

Further information is available from CCG Capital Division on 028 9051 5030 or 028 9051 5053 or alternatively you can download an application from their webpage.

The initiative is being delivered by departmental officials who will oversee the award and ensure that the benefits are released.

The maximum award granted will be £25,000.

The closing date for applications is noon on Wednesday, November 23 this year.