Strabane is to get a new government office offering benefits, skills and farming support services, it has been announced.
The new office, to be built on the site of the current Social Security Office on Urney Road, will be the new venue for a modern Jobs and Benefits office and also a new DARD (Department of Agricultural and Rural Development) Direct Office.
Work is due to begin on the new build in next autumn, subject to planning permission and procurement, with completion expected by spring 2016.
Making the announcement, Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland said the development was “another step” in the transformation of town.
He said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to work with our colleagues across government to deliver a joined up service for the people of Strabane.
“This will be a new, modern building providing a modern end to end customer service, helping to tackle barriers to employment and contributing to addressing poverty and social deprivation in this area.”
He concluded: “Also, those working in these offices will enjoy new, modern surroundings and all the benefits that brings. The wider impact will of course be a welcome boost to the construction industry in terms of the actual building work.
Agriculture Minister, Michelle O’Neill said the new DARD Direct office would provide the full range of services to farmers in the surrounding area by 2016 and would complete the full roll-out of 12 DARD Direct Offices across the North.
She added: “Feedback from farmers about DARD Direct has always been very positive and I want to ensure that customers in the North West benefit in the same way as others have. The office in Strabane will be a welcome addition to the DARD customer service provision.”
Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry said: “I welcome the construction of a new Jobs and Benefits Office in Strabane. A purpose-built facility which will offer a bespoke, work-focused service for the people of Strabane and surrounding areas is a very positive development.”
