GLENALINA Lodge in West Belfast has officially reopened following a major £5 million refurbishment, marking a new chapter for the long-established care facility.

The extensive refurbishment by Radius Housing has transformed Glenalina Lodge, with the Springfield Road facility now providing 50 modern ensuite flatlets alongside refurbished communal areas, a central dining space and landscaped gardens.

Glenalina provides specialist 24-hour care and support for older people and people living with dementia, with the refurbished facility designed to provide residents with a comfortable environment while supporting independence, social activity and quality of life.

For residents and staff, the reopening represents the completion of a major programme of work and the beginning of a new chapter for Glenalina.

West Belfast MLA Aisling Reilly, who attended the re-opening, said: “It was brilliant to be at Glenalina Lodge for its reopening and to see the transformation that has taken place here in West Belfast.

“There has been a huge amount of work and investment put into this facility, and you can really see the difference it has made. Most importantly, it was great to see the positivity from residents, their families and staff around the reopening.

“Glenalina is an important part of our community and the people who live here deserve to have a facility that is comfortable, modern and feels like home. This refurbishment has delivered that, while ensuring residents continue to receive the care and support they need.

“A huge thanks to Radius Housing and everyone involved in delivering the project. It is great to see this significant investment being made here in West Belfast and to see Glenalina open its doors again.”

Lord Mayor Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly also welcomed the reopening, highlighting the importance of having high-quality care provision rooted within local communities.

“It was lovely to be at Glenalina Lodge for its reopening and to meet the residents and staff who make this place what it is," she said.

“The £5 million investment has made a huge difference to the facility, but what really stood out was the positivity and warmth from everyone we met. You could feel that this was a really important day for the residents, their families and the staff team.

“For older people and people living with dementia, having a safe, welcoming and comfortable place to call home is so important. The new facilities, communal spaces and gardens will make a real difference to everyday life here.

“I want to congratulate everyone at Radius Housing and the Glenalina team on the reopening. A huge amount of work has gone into bringing this project to completion, and it is fantastic to see Glenalina looking so well and once again at the heart of the West Belfast community.”