DJ Fergie helps to launch Factory community projects

The Areas at Risk programme will deliver a range of projects and activities targeting marginalised groups in the neighbourhood, including older people, young people and the unemployed. A number of successful initiatives have already been delivered in the area as a result of the investment involving a number of local organisations.

The programme is being delivered through the Factory Community Forum, and supported by the Big Lottery Funded Community Support and Development Partnership.

Annette White, chairperson of the Factory Community Forum, thanked DSD and welcomed the investment and the difference it would make to local people, local groups and the community in general.

The launch also saw the official opening of the new drop-in facility on Lower Waterloo Road, which includes a fully-equipped IT suite. The centre will provide activities for all age groups alongside a youth drop-in on a number of evenings during the week. Prospective young directors are currently learning the art of film making, with their first production to be shown locally in the New Year.

Gareth McConnell, community development worker for the area, said: “A significant amount of work went in to developing an action plan for the area and it is good to see that the priorities in it will now be delivered through this investment. The work of all the groups involved will ensure that the Factory remains a great place to live.”

The youth drop-in will be open every Monday, Wednesday and Friday night from 7pm – 10pm from Wednesday, January 4. For more details of any of the activities provided at the centre please call in to the office or check the Factory Community Forum website of Facebook page.