Ritchie announces Masterplan for Carrickfergus

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA has today appointed consultants to carry out a masterplan for Carrickfergus town centre.

The aim of the masterplan process is to make Carrickfergus a more attractive place to tourists, residents and businesses alike. The plan will identify key town centre sites and make recommendations on their development.

Margaret Ritchie said: “The masterplan is an important boost in the future regeneration of Carrickfergus. It will provide a clear strategy for the physical, economic and social transformation of Carrickfergus town centre. This process will help to build consensus amongst government departments and agencies, Carrickfergus Borough Council, the local community and private developers on how to optimise development opportunities.

"This will be quite a challenge in the current difficult economic climate. However, I am already encouraged by the willingness of the private sector to get involved in the process through the Carrickfergus Development Company. I trust that the development opportunities will be taken up in the coming years and that this will increase the economic vibrancy of the town and help to promote Carrickfergus’s proud heritage.”

Alderman Patricia McKinney, Mayor of Carrickfergus Borough Council said: "We are delighted that this process has been started, and are grateful to the Department for Social Development for supporting the development of a masterplan for Carrickfergus. Carrickfergus Borough Council is committed to working with the community, and in particular local businesses, through the Carrickfergus Development Company to ensure the resulting plan has the full support of everyone in Carrickfergus, and that it truly represents the full potential of our town."

Jack Creighton Chairman of Carrickfergus Development Company said: “This plan is a huge opportunity for Carrickfergus to take its rightful place as one of Ireland's most Historic Towns. This masterplan will allow everyone to be part of making Carrickfergus an exciting, unique place to shop, live and visit.”

Work will commence in this month and is due to be completed in August 2009.

Notes to editors

1. The masterplan will be prepared by the Paul Hogarth Company, a Belfast-based firm of planning consultants who were closely involved in the Laganside development in Belfast.
2. The cost of producing the masterplan is £67,775.
3. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078 or 07818 035258. Out of office please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.

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