On Friday 19 August, a ‘Strandtown Connections’ timeline was unveiled at Gelston’s Corner, adjacent to the former Park Avenue Hotel site which is currently being developed by Choice Housing. The timeline was developed by a local group as part of the ‘Strandtown Connections’ heritage programme, led by Eastside Partnership – supported by Belfast City Council – and the ‘Strand Stories’ heritage project, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The eight week in-person programme included workshops, tours and talks, and it gave participants an opportunity to share connections and memories of the local area.
Heritage Officer at Eastside Partnership, Lisa Rea Currie said, “It’s been a pleasure working with the ‘Strandtown Connections’ group and helping them discover local stories.”
Heritage Officer of Strand Arts Centre, Rosie Hickey said, “‘Strand Stories’ aims to record, cherish and promote the social and architectural heritage of the Strand. During the ‘Strandtown Connections’ programme I was delighted to engage with and explore the wider context of our landmark building. I’m delighted to see the timeline up at the busy Gelston’s Corner junction, keeping the rich heritage of this corner of east Belfast very much in the public eye.”
Participant Tommy Mulligan said: “It was interesting to find out different stories about East Belfast with a great bunch of people.”
Richard Mealey, Community Development Manager of Choice Housing said: “It’s a fantastic project, helping to keep local history alive.”
Richard Gaston, Marketing & Communications Manager
Strand Arts Centre
156 Holywood Road
BELFAST
BT4 1NY
(028) 9065 5830 / 07903 085533
www.strandartscentre.com
