Ritchie Resurrects Run-Down Residence

A former derelict house in Belfast's Ormeau Park has been reopened by Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie.

The Ormeau Park House was originally built in 1878 for the park's superintendent and his family.

It fell into disrepair when the last tenants moved out over 30 years ago.

Grant aid from the minister's department rescued it from a derelict state, and it has now been restored for social housing and family accommodation by the Hearth Housing Association.


Modern energy saving technologies have been employed to ensure the property meets current building standards. 



Minister Ritchie said: "This is a wonderful story which demonstrates what can be achieved when the public and voluntary sectors get together to make things happen."

"The restoration of this house provides a much needed family home and at the same time rescues an historic building of local importance."



"Hearth Housing Association is to be congratulated for bringing this property back to life."

"My New Housing Agenda is all about delivering opportunity and choice for those who need it most and every additional house provided helps one more family from the waiting list," added the minister. 



(PR/JM)