The long-running plans to regenerate a run-down street in Dungannon have taken a step closer thanks to a £900,000 grant.
Perry Street is set to be transformed with the demolition of a row of properties – already underway – and the construction of three commercial units, three apartments and eight townhouses.
The grant towards the £2.9 million project has been awarded by the Department for Communities.
Last year, owners Castlehill Community Regeneration Group went out to tender for a contractor – six years after the proposals were first brought to Mid-Ulster District Council.
The project lies within a conservation area and there had been major issues getting the scheme off the ground.
Announcing the funding, Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey described Perry Street as an important gateway into Dungannon town centre.
She said: “This project will bring back into full use a complete street of vacant, derelict and underutilised buildings which have blighted this part of Dungannon town centre for many years.
“This project to regenerate Perry Street will promote commercial and residential opportunities within the town centre, addressing economic decline and creating employment opportunities, as well as encouraging town centre living, which I believe is key to sustainable regeneration in the future.
“This represents another important milestone in the overall regeneration of Dungannon and will substantially address the dereliction issue within the town.”