Ritchie launches multi-million transformation of Bangors waterfront and centre
Wednesday, 10 June 2009Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie today launched a public consultation exercise on proposals for a new £100million mixed use development for Bangor’s Waterfront.
It is estimated that up to 1,000 jobs will be created during construction with an additional 750 permanent jobs on offer when the development is complete.
The proposed scheme includes:
236,000 sq ft of retail across 60 units within a new covered street;
53,000 sq ft of office space;
over 200 residential units;
a 120-150 bed hotel;
a 400 seat multi-use arts, performance and convention space;
a family entertainment centre and restaurants.
In addition, the proposed scheme includes plans to enhance the public realm and civic uses of the waterfront area by creating a promenade, an outdoor performance space, public parks and tourist facilities.
Margaret Ritchie said: “The regeneration of Queen’s Parade offers a unique opportunity to regenerate Bangor town centre and waterfront.”
“Last year, my Department put together a development brief for the Queen’s Parade site which set out our objectives for this part of Bangor. These were to improve the town centre’s retail performance, bring new activities into the town centre and promote town centre living. At the same time, we want to ensure that the unique character of the town is preserved, that we promote high quality design and deliver benefits to and secure the support of the whole community.”
“I believe that the Marine Gardens proposal, which my Department, the Council and the developer have brought forward, is a tremendously exciting new plan which has the potential to move us massively toward meeting those objectives.”
The plans will also reinforce links between High Street and Main Street in the town and enhance the current infrastructure with the creation of a new pedestrian street and up to 750 parking spaces.
Acknowledging the need for public engagement on the proposed scheme and the necessity to engage with local residents of the area, Margaret Ritchie continued: “I am acutely aware that we need to consider the needs of the current residents living in the Borough and particularly those in the vicinity of Queen’s Parade. I am therefore launching a two week consultation period as I want to get the views of the public in Bangor on the proposed scheme. I would invite everyone with an interest in the town and its future to view the plans at the public exhibition over the next two weeks and submit their views to the Department.”
Aran Blackbourne, Director of Karl Greenfarm, said: “Bangor has a unique identity in an outstanding setting and we believe the marina has significant potential for an exciting mix of new uses to reinvigorate the waterfront and restore the town’s position as a prime destination with shoppers, families and tourists.”
“A retail-led scheme of this nature will provide a much needed social and economic boost to the town, and will make a substantial contribution to the local economy by generating jobs and attracting investment to the area. We are confident that Marine Gardens will attract a strong tenant mix to strengthen and complement the existing town centre in addition to enhancing both the day and evening economies in the town.”
Mark Rebbeck, Director of joint venture partners, MAR Properties, said: “The marina is a key part of the town but the existing car park currently imposes a physical and visual barrier to the waterfront area. These proposals present a fantastic opportunity to enhance and repair the waterfront and integrate the area more coherently within the town centre.”
“We have revised our initial proposals following consultation with the public and the Department For Social Development and utilised the international expertise of HKR architects to design a scheme of European excellence. The Marine Gardens plans have been well received by the council and we now look forward to showing our proposals to the public in the coming weeks.”
The plans will be on display in the former Woolworths store from 10 June 2009 until 24 June 2009.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
1. The estimated overall cost of the scheme is £100million. This will be met in full by the developer, Karl Greenfarm Limited.
2. Information on how to submit written feedback will be available at the event.
3. The plans will be made available on the Department’s website from 10 June 2009.
4. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078 or Helen Mulholland on 07970 976894. Out of office hours please contact Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.
5. Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie will visit Bangor Marine Court Hotel from 1:00pm and will be available for any media interviews.
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