NICOLE BRADFORD FROM TWADDELL AVENUE PUTS THE KETTLE ON FOR OUR SHANKILL MANAGER MARGARET MARLEY IN HER BRAND NEW KITCHEN.

FAMILIES in the Shankill area are looking forward to the winter in comfort, after the Housing Executive fitted new kitchens and bathrooms at dozens of local properties.

Beginning in July, the two-phase scheme saw an investment of around £1 million, which allowed 154 homes to receive major upgrade work.

Phase one has been completed well in advance of the festive season, while phase two will be finished by early in the New Year.

HE Shankill Manager, Margaret Marley, said:

“Over 150 tenants and their families will benefit from these upgrades and their quality of life will be enhanced with new kitchens and bathrooms.

“In the last year alone, we have invested £3.7 million upgrading almost 900 houses across Greater Shankill, which represents a hugely significant investment here.

“We’ve also recently provided new rooves for homes in Springmartin and in lower Shankill, the new Hopewell Square Garden has been added to by the re-instatement of the Lost Streets public art close by.

“We will continue to look for opportunities to foster vibrant communities and to deliver better services and better homes.

”Our tenant Nicole Bradford’s Twaddell Avenue home was one of those included in the recent refurbishment programme.Nicole said:

“The scheme has meant a great improvement to our home and whilst there was upheaval it was well worth it.

“I was delighted they were able to design my kitchen to suit my appliances, including my tumble dryer and I still have plenty of cupboard space.

“To be honest, the standard of kitchen and bathroom provided is well above what I expected and it was great being able to choose my own units and worktops.

“I love the new bathroom too – it has made such a difference, especially the electric power shower – it’s such a benefit for the family.”