Bluestone a thriving hotbed of business

That’s been the story of Bluestone Business Park, where last week Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie cut the ribbon on a major extension.

The expansion has provided an additional nine business units, four of which have already been snapped up.

The aim of the business park is to cultivate entrepreneurship and encourage development of small businesses within a disadvantaged area, which has significant levels of community polarisation and deprivation.

Before Brownlow Ltd took on the challenge of regenerating the area, the site where the state-of-the-art business park now stands was home to derelict Housing Executive dwellings.

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie said: "The development and growth of the small business and social economy sector is one of the main contributors to an economically prosperous and socially stable future.

“I welcome this further development of an already successful business park which will provide more opportunities for both fledgling and established business in the area and help secure Brownlow Ltd’s long term viability. I would like to congratulate all involved in this project, particularly the Brownlow Neighbourhood Partnership."

This 829,000 extension is part of a major programme of projects which has been funded through the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund over the last three years representing an overall investment of over 3million in the area and will enable the continued economic development of Brownlow.

The Minister also paid tribute to the Brownlow Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership for their support: "This project clearly demonstrates what can be achieved through the voluntary and community sector working in partnership with government and local authorities. This funding will help create employment opportunities within the Brownlow Neighbourhood Renewal Area and will make a significant contribution to the economic regeneration of this area."

Welcoming news of this investment, the Chair of Brownlow Ltd, Dian Heaney, said: “Brownlow Ltd is a classic example of how a local community can gather together to triumph over hardship. The Business Park now provides a range of facilities from premises to business advice for small businesses in the area. This project is a clear demonstration of the Minister’s support for our activities and we thank her for her assistance."