The Ulster Archtectural Heritage Society (UAHS) has this week celebrated its 40th Anniversary.

NI Assembly Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie addressed officials and members of the UAHS at a reception. The Society was established in order to promote the rich architectural heritage of its nine counties of Ulster and encourage the conservation and preservation of its historic buildings.

Speaking at its AGM, Minister Ritchie, said: "I believe that historic buildings have a significant role to play in urban regeneration, not least because their unique character can prove crucial when trying to establish a sense of identity and place.



"My Department has overall responsibility for urban regeneration in Northern Ireland and I am committed to the conservation of its built heritage. In fact over the last 10 years, the Department for Social Development has spent £2.3million in Belfast alone on the redevelopment of historic buildings.

"This has included transforming an old mill into office accommodation and converting a former church into a restaurant.



"We have also invested £2million in Derry, allowing us to refurbish the four main streets and the Diamond area within the Walled City. This is an iconic and immediately identifiable area with huge historical significance."

The Minister concluded by commending the work of the UAHS: "I congratulate the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society on its achievements over the past 40 years and wish them continued success in the future."

(JM)