£100 million allocated to Fatima Mansions

The Taoiseach, Mr Bertie Ahern has given the go-ahead for a £100 million plan to redevelop one of Dublin's most disadvantaged…

The Taoiseach, Mr Bertie Ahern has given the go-ahead for a £100 million plan to redevelop one of Dublin's most disadvantaged city centre areas.

The cash is to be spent on Fatima Mansions, a sprawling 50-year-old flats and housing complex that is home to more than 700 people.

The investment is being made as part of a government bid to promote urban renewal. The move was welcomed by community groups based in the complex, which was originally built to replace slums inDublin city central.

The scheme will lead to extra and improved accommodation following the demolition of all the existing flats, as well as new sport and leisure facilities, including parks and water gardens.