After many years of overcoming hurdles and struggling to raise funds, the £5m Conway Mill restoration was finally launched at a gala gathering.

The Mill is aimed at promoting social/economic regeneration, job creation and business development while preserving the heritage of one of the most significant architectural landmarks in West Belfast. The project created 16 new workspaces and enterprise units for new and expanding businesses in the Lower Falls. The building now also houses 20 new artist studios and an atrium space.

Those taking part include: Jim Neeson: Conway Mill Preservation Trust, Alex Attwood MLA Minister for Social Development, Ian Lush, Roisin McDonough Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Father Des Wilson: Conway Education Project, Dr. Denis Rooney: International Fund for Ireland, Paul Brush:Dept. of Trade and Investment, Paul Mullan: Heritage Lottery Fund, Ian Lush: Architectural Heritage Fund, Danny McAree: Manager of Conway Mill, Gerry Adams, President of Sinn Fein, The Andersontown School of Traditional Music, Elsie Best: Conway Education Centre and the Healing Centre, Noelle Ryan, Springhill Community House, Fred Taggart: Princes Regeneration Trust, Martin McGuinness, Deputy First Minister, Gráinne Holland & Feilimí O’Connor.