Junior Ministers Aisling Reilly and Pam Cameron have visited an ambitious £2.9 million redevelopment project aimed at improving community relations in South Belfast. Once completed, the former Lockhouse will be reimagined into a vibrant community café, training and exhibition and good relations space situated along the Lagan Towpath.

The transformation will complement the work being delivered through the community garden and men’s shed, which were officially opened yesterday.

Speaking at the site visit to mark the official start of work on the project, Junior Minister Reilly said: “It has been so inspiring to hear about the incredible work being carried out by Lower Ormeau Residents Action Group (LORAG) to create vibrant and welcoming spaces for people of all backgrounds to come together.  I am delighted that the Urban Villages Initiative is playing a key part in that work through the redevelopment of the former Lockhouse.

“This redevelopment has already transformed an unused green space into a community area for outdoor recreation and education.

“I have no doubt this will be a great asset for the whole community in this part of South Belfast, and I look forward to returning to see the completed project in 2025.”

A spokesperson for Lower Ormeau Residents Action Group said: “LORAG welcomes the start of this exciting new development of a Healthy Living Hub within the Lower Ormeau. We thank those funders who have embraced our vision to improve health and wellbeing of the local community.

“The development will offer access to a fabulous building encompassing the old Lockhouse, transforming the house into a beautiful riverside café, fabulous conference room, alongside two multi-purpose spaces with access to the community garden and shed with panoramic views of the River Lagan and the Belfast Old Industrial skyline.”

Funding for the project has been through a collaborative partnership between The Executive Office, Department for Communities, Department for Infrastructure and Belfast City Council, with funding of £1.8m, £750k, £350k and £49.8k allocated respectively.