A pounds 1.38MILLION workspace development is taking shape just outside Enniskillen.

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster returned to her home county to mark the start of construction of a new hangar at Fermanagh's St Angelo Airport.

The project, which has been funded by an EU cross-border programme with assistance from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, involves the creation of a 37,000 sq ft facility.

After turning the first sod at the site, Mrs Foster said: "This important construction project represents a significant boost for St Angelo Airport, Fermanagh and the wider region.

"The financial assistance provided by my department is a further example of a continuing commitment to supporting enterprise and tourism in the region."

The minister said the construction of the aircraft maintenance facilities would enable the airport to generate greater levels of both business and leisure activity to help grow the local economy.

And she further revealed the new hangarage space could attract an aircraft maintenance company and this would ultimately result in the creation of at least 14 highly skilled jobs in aviation, engineering and technical disciplines.

Fermanagh District Council chairman Thomas O'Reilly said he hoped the facility would attract key businesses to the area.

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