The draft plans were made available to the public during the period 3 September–16 October 2009 for their comments and views. The outcome of that has been acknowledged in revised plans for the regeneration of the town centre.
Margaret Ritchie said: "I urged people at the start of this consultation period in September to examine draft proposals put forward and I welcome the overwhelming response. The views and suggestions expressed, helped guide us through very substantive issues for regenerating Carrickfergus town centre and these will be considered when we come to finalising the masterplan.
"I commend the Council, the traders and businesses and other community organisations for their forthright views and hope that the changes that are now being made will deliver the right future vision of the town for everyone."
The public consultation was a very positive process as it encouraged considerable debate and strong views on what people fervently believed was best for transforming Carrickfergus for the better. It was deliberately ambitious with a wide range of proposals both small and large.
A report on the public consultation process and the outcome has now been prepared by The Paul Hogarth Company.
Alderman Patricia McKinney, Mayor of Carrickfergus Borough Council said: "It is wonderful that the people of Carrickfergus have shown how passionate they are about their town. Thanks to the thoughtful and considered responses from people in the Borough, our masterplan will truly reflect what people want."
An exhibition board showing a revised draft masterplan is now available at the Civic Centre in the De Courcy Centre and the office of Carrickfergus Development Company at 8 West Street from Wednesday 20January until Wednesday 3 February. A copy of the exhibition board is also available together with the report on the consultation process on the masterplan on the DSD website for download
Any further comments on the revised draft masterplan will be considered by coDSD websitentacting members of Carrickfergus Borough Council or at the office of Carrickfergus Development Company. The final published masterplan is due to be completed in the Spring, 2010.
Notes to editors:
- News media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078 or 07970 976 894. Out of office please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
