Work is now complete on the first LOTS (Living Over The Shop) scheme in Enniskillen, at 28 Darling Street.
This project has involved the renovation of the property to provide a retail unit on the ground floor and the conversion of disused storage space on the first and second floors into an attractive self-contained residential apartment.
The ground floor unit is now occupied by Russell & Donnelly Fine Wines and Speciality Foods, and the apartment occupied by a private residential tenant.
The LOTS scheme in Enniskillen is led by Fermanagh District Council in partnership with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
The initiative is part of a government drive to promote urban regeneration and encourage town centre living through the conversion of vacant or otherwise underused properties within town centres into residential accommodation.
Commenting on the initiative, Thomas O'Reilly, the Chairman of Fermanagh District Council stated: "Town centre living has become a popular choice, with many people attracted to the convenience of an urban lifestyle. Enabling and encouraging people to live in Enniskillen town centre will greatly enhance the economy, vibrancy and security of the town, especially in the evenings.
The LOTS scheme will undoubtedly bring significant economic, social and financial benefits to our county town."
The LOTS scheme affords property owners in Enniskillen with an opportunity to receive a grant of up to 75% to a maximum of £30,000 to convert or renovate underused town centre buildings (or part thereof) into apartments or townhouses. Qualifying works include re-wiring, re-plumbing and fitting replacement kitchens, bathrooms, roofs and windows.
To date, over 20 property owners in Enniskillen have applied for a grant under the LOTS scheme. These applications range from single unit renovations to multiple occupation conversions.
PJ Mulrine, the Housing Executive's local Grants Manager said he was very encouraged by the number of applications and enquiries that have been received for LOTS grants.
"We are delighted to see the property at Darling Street completed and look forward to seeing other developments complete.
"We hope that this development will encourage other property owners in Enniskillen to take the opportunity to receive financial assistance to convert their underused town centre buildings into attractive and modern residential accommodation."
John Donnelly, who jointly owns the property at 28 Darling Street along with his business partner Gerry Russell said he was delighted that work was complete at his property in Darling Street.
"The conversion of the upper floor from storage space to living accommodation complements the recent refurbishment of the deli on the ground floor. The LOTS initiative is a fantastic opportunity for property owners in Enniskillen town centre to receive financial assistance to invest in their properties and create much-needed residential accommodation in a convenient location suitable for the demands of modern living."
For further information on the LOTS scheme in Enniskillen, people should contact Fiona Ruddy at Fermanagh District Council on 028 6632 5050 or PJ Mulrine at Fermanagh Grants Office on 0844 8920 900.
