The consultation period will now run until 24 July with proposed plans on display on the first floor of the Bangor Carnegie Library.
Margaret Ritchie said: “There has been an overwhelming response to my Department’s public consultation on the proposed Marine Gardens development at Queen’s Parade. So far, over 1,700 people have called into the old Woolworths store to view the presentation and learn more about the proposed development.
“I made it clear from the outset that it is very important that the public have their say and that their views will be taken on board before any decisions are made. As a result of the very high level of interest in the scheme, I have decided to extend the public consultation period to allow extra time for all interested parties to view the popular presentation and submit their views.
“The Marine Gardens presentation will be on display in the Bangor Carnegie Library until 24 July 2009 and I would encourage the public to view and comment on the proposals.”
Margaret Ritchie concluded saying: “When I launched the consultation on 10 June, I said that the regeneration of Queen’s Parade offers an excellent opportunity to restore and regenerate the town centre and waterfront of Bangor. This scheme has the potential to make Bangor a much sought after location to visit, shop, live and work in. I still believe that is the case, but we must ensure that the scheme which is developed is the best that can possibly be achieved and is one which can command the support of Bangor’s residents.”
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 and over 200 residential units, multiple leisure aspects with plans to incorporate 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.
Notes to Editors:
1. The estimated overall cost of the scheme is £120million. This will be met in full by the developer, Karl Greenfarm Limited.
2. The plans are on display in Bangor Carnegie Library. The opening times for the library are:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 9:00am to 9:00pm
Thursday 9:00am to 10:00pm
Friday, Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm
3. Information leaflets on how to submit written feedback are available at the Library.
4. The Marine Gardens Consultation
is available on the DSD website.
5. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078 or 07970 976894. Out of office hours please contact Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.
