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Coleraine regeneration is needed - McCausland

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland visited the historic market town of Coleraine to see the proposed regeneration of the town centre.
~ Thursday, 23 June 2011

The Minister met with the developers of the two major schemes, The Lanes and The Ramparts, in the town centre to discuss the opportunities that exist for investment in the town’s future. The schemes will develop retail and residential accommodation with restaurants and cafes.

Speaking after the meeting, Minister McCausland said: “Coleraine is one of Northern Ireland’s oldest towns with a tradition of community and commerce. These two schemes are an example of what my Department is doing to help rejuvenate town centres across Northern Ireland that have become rundown due to difficult economic times.

“Unfortunately in Coleraine, the lack of retailer demand for new outlets and the difficult financial markets mean that it has not been possible for either scheme to start within the timescales anticipated originally. However, the current economic problems do not alter the fact that Coleraine needs these schemes. My Department will therefore continue to work with both developers to ensure that they can start as soon as it is economically possible.”

Mayor of Coleraine, Alderman Maurice Bradley welcomed the Minister to the Borough:

“I am delighted to welcome the Minister to Coleraine to have the opportunity to see at first hand the progress that is being made in the town. Council is very appreciative of the support of the Department for Social Development and the partnership working that has helped to generate a number of regeneration initiatives in Coleraine.

"More recently activity was focused on specific development schemes and this work towards the development of key sites in the town is ongoing. I would encourage the Minister to keep up the momentum in seeking positive results for Coleraine."

Notes to editors:

  1. The Lanes scheme, which was granted planning permission in July 2008 is a modest mixed use scheme that would include retail, residential accommodation, restaurant/café and up to 549 parking spaces. The scheme is being taken forward by Ashley Moore.
  2. The Ramparts scheme, which was granted planning permission in August 2009 is a large mixed use scheme that would include retail, office, residential accommodation and up to 900 parking spaces. This scheme is being taken forward by a Derry based development firm, Fermac.
  3. The Paul Hogarth Company was appointed by the Department in July 2010 to prepare a masterplan for Coleraine Town centre. It is expected that a draft masterplan will be made available for public consultation from the end of June for a period of eight weeks.
  4. Media enquiries to DSD Communications Team on 028 9082 9078 or email press.office@dsdni.gov.uk. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440.
  5. View photos of the visit on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/niexecutive/sets/72157626911434393/