Regeneration Plans for the future of Omagh launched

DSD Minister, Margaret Ritchie, today visited Omagh to announce the publication of the Omagh Town Centre Master-plan and the Omagh Visioning Framework 2025.

Commenting on the plans, the Minister said that her Department would be using the Town Centre Master-plan to guide future regeneration policies and proposals for the town.

“It is my intention to issue one or more Development Briefs for the key priority areas identified in the plan and to publish these in the course of the coming year. The regeneration of Omagh is of paramount importance to the local people and I will strive to ensure that all works reflect the aspirations of everyone involved.”

The Minister continued by commenting that: “In response to new developments, my Department will use the Master-plan to guide future investment in improvements to the Public Realm, and will work closely with the Council and other implementing bodies to take forward the proposals.”

Chairman of Omagh District Council, Mr Martin McColgan, added: “The Council welcomes the Town Centre Master-plan and its complimentarity to the Omagh Visioning Framework 2025. Both documents emphasise the significance of Omagh, and we look forward to working with DSD in bringing the plans to fruition.”

The Plans, which had been on display for a six week consultation period, were launched at a reception in the Strule Arts Centre today, 21 January.

The proposals are contained in two interlinked documents – the Omagh Visioning Framework 2025 prepared by Colin Buchanan and Partners on behalf of Omagh District Council, and Omagh Town Centre Master-plan prepared by the Paul Hogarth Company on behalf of the Department for Social Development.

The Visioning Framework 2025 proposes a range of social, economic and physical interventions that could shape the future development of the town. This would include transport infrastructure, brown-field development and the design of Gateway locations.

The Town Centre Master-plan focuses on the regeneration potential of the town centre, bringing forward proposals which ensure that the town centre protects and capitalises on its existing assets – its vibrant centre, its historic core, and its riverside location. It also proposes how new developments should be shaped to maximise benefits for Omagh residents, business sector and visitors.

These documents will now form important components of guidance for Omagh District Council and the Department for Social Development as they prioritise regeneration and development opportunities.

Notes to Editors

1. Omagh Visioning Framework 2025 is published by Omagh District Council and is available online,or from the Development Department, Omagh District Council, The Grange, Mountjoy Road, Omagh.
2. The Omagh Town Centre Master-plan is available online or from the Regional Development Office, Kevlin Avenue, Omagh.
3. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.