DUP Engages With Westland Community Over Enhanced Facilities

A detailed review has been undertaken on the community facilities in the Westland area of Belfast.

DUP representatives met with members of the community to engage in discussions on the progress of new facilities in the local area.

Speaking following the meeting, DUP First Minister Paul Givan said: "It was good to speak with the local community and hear their views first-hand. DUP representatives have been pressing for enhanced facilities for the Westland area, including through the Urban Villages Capital Plan.

"TEO officials are now engaging with the community in Westland to meet identified need. Discussions have taken place around the issues facing the area, including community tensions and the lack of modern community facilities which has proved to be a blockage in developing local community cohesion and capacity.


"TEO officials have undertaken a detailed review of the site including the existing dilapidated portacabin structure, the extensive waste ground adjacent to the portacabin and the floodlit MUGA area, with a view to considering options and plans for new facilities that will serve the needs of the local community. A business case process is commencing and being prioritised."

Minister Givan was joined by local MLA William Humphrey, Councillors Fred Cobain and Dean McCullough at the meeting yesterday, 26 August.

MLA Humphrey reiterated the call for new community facilities for Westland, urging for an investment in the region of £1 million to be made available for the work.

He added: "Visits to other community associations will be arranged to view exemplar community buildings, and governance and capacity support provided by TEO and Belfast City Council. Options and drawings to be progressed for the business case and to allow for community consultation."