A partnership of local and central governments is using sport to deliver social change in the Shankill area of Belfast, Northern Ireland.

The Department for Social Development has teamed up with Belfast City Council (BCC), Department for Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) and Sport Northern Ireland to fund a £770,000, full-size 3G pitch and floodlit facility at the Hammer Complex, off Agnes Street.

Nelson McCausland, minister for social development, said the new facility will be used to address social issues.

He said: "Projects such as these support my department's strategic objectives of community and social renewal - objectives which aim to improve the quality of life for people in some of our most deprived neighbourhoods.

"They help to increase voluntary activity, contribute towards healthier lifestyles and aid community development and are therefore worthy of support."

The facility will be leased to Springfield Star Football Club, who will manage the site.

Councillor Gareth McKee from BCC added: "One of the main programmes to be put in place at the new facility will be a Midnight Soccer programme, a diversionary tactic which provides an alternative for young people who might otherwise get involved in anti-social behaviour."