Projects aimed at improving relations between communities in Belfast are to get a significant boost through almost £15m of European Union peace funding.
The money is being administered though the PEACEPLUS Programme, administered by the Special EU Programmes Body, and among other things will support Belfast City Council’s Action Plan aiming to make Belfast a “compassionate, inclusive city”.
PEACEPLUS is an EU funding programme designed to promote peace and prosperity across Northern Ireland and the border counties of the Republic.
Welcoming the funding, Belfast Lord Mayor Micky Murray said: “A key part of The Belfast Agenda is for our city to be one which is welcoming and compassionate. One that respects the diversity of our people.
“In securing this funding, the council can use the money to encourage thriving and peaceful communities, and celebrate different cultures and diversity.”
Among the projects to directly benefit from the funding are a planned LGBTQIA+ hub space; the Sanctuary Theatre in east Belfast; the Distillery Street Redevelopment Project, aimed at creating a new community space at waste ground previously used as a bonfire site; and a scheme to improve access to the hills surrounding Belfast.
First minister Michelle O’Neill said the funding “demonstrates a commitment to building a more peaceful, tolerant and cohesive society”.
“By working collaboratively with local communities, the initiatives set out within the Action Plan will help address the area’s unique needs and aspirations,” she said.
“This Plan represents a transformative opportunity to foster social harmony and sustain economic growth and prosperity. I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on residents across the city and beyond.”
