Details of the €150 million redevelopment of Fatima Mansions in Dublin's inner city were announced yesterday afternoon. "More than anything else it's having my own little garden, my own little patch, that I'm looking forward to," said resident Ms Alice Connell.
A year ago she watched as the flats complex she lived in for most of her life was demolished. Work on the first phase of new homes begins later this week and Ms Connell hopes to be moved in by early next year.
"I am looking forward to it so much. I don't have green fingers but I'll still try growing some flowers in my new garden. I'll be able to keep an eye on the children, and not have to worry about syringes anymore."
Fatima Mansions consisted of 363 residential flats in 14 blocks built in the 1950s.
Despite a regeneration project in the 1980s, the flats acquired an unfortunate history of antisocial behaviour, including problems of drug abuse.
In 2001 the City Council decided it would be best to demolish the entire complex and redevelop. This will be done in conjunction with private developers.
The council is also working on proposals to use the public-private-partnership process in the regeneration of St Michael's Estate in Inchicore, and O'Devaney Gardens on the North Circular Road.
The regeneration will involve the construction of 150 local authority houses, 70 affordable houses and 350 units (both flats and houses), which will be privately owned. Retail units, a swimming pool, a creche, gym and playing area will also be built.
Although the area has had its difficulties in the past, it will become a "desirable area" to live in, according to the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Renewal, Mr Noel Ahern.
He said the social mix of housing and the commitment of the residents would make the project a success.
The day marks a "new chapter in the life of Fatima", said the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Michael Conaghan.
"Today is a day of poignancy and a day of hope. I hope that the residents will bring the best of the old Fatima into this new project."
However, for some the day brought back memories of the past. Former resident Mr Jerry Reilly, now living in Clondalkin, reminisced with childhood girlfriend Ms Lilly Hynes, who is still living in Fatima.
"I moved into the flats in 1967 and I had a wonderful childhood there. We had nothing, but we were happy. I would love to relive those years again."
Ms Deirdre Reid, who has lived in Fatima all her life and is a member of the regeneration board, said the future looked bright for Fatima.
"I hope the community spirit stays. You can't get spirit like it anywhere else. It has been a long battle to get here but we are here now, and there are opportunities for the young people. What more could you want?"