Banbridge Blueprint welcomed by Attwood

Minister for Social Development, Alex Attwood visited Banbridge today to launch a new blueprint for the future development of the town

Proposals for future regeneration of Banbridge laid out in the strategy document launched today include:

• Traffic management measures, improved accessibility, and improved car parking;
• Making connections and new link roads, to ensure better connectivity within the Town;
• Promoting the development of a strong urban fabric, taking account of current ‘under-used’ sites;
• Improving and strengthening Banbridge’s Town Core; and
• Making more use of the River Bann and its close proximity to the Town.

Alex Atwood said: “I am encouraged today by the foresight and leadership of Banbridge District Council who have commissioned and funded the Development Strategy for Banbridge. This document is an excellent example of a council being proactive in its approach to town centre management. The document provides a coherent future vision for the town and identifies key regeneration concepts for the future development of Banbridge as an enterprising and competitive, yet traditional market town.

“Banbridge is a town with great potential. Like many other towns, it faces competition from neighbouring established centres. Now is the time to strive to attract future investment, and I have no doubt that the document launched here today will assist Banbridge in retaining its competitive edge and further improve its distinctive retail and service offer.”

The Minister was joined by representatives of Banbridge Council. Chairman of the council, Councillor Jim McElroy said: “The Banbridge Development Strategy was developed by all interested in the further growth of the town and the council appreciates the contribution from the Bridgewater Park Developers. As a member of Banbridge Community Regeneration Ltd I am keen to see new projects develop from the strategy so that the town can move forward for the benefit of our local economy and residents of our district. The document is a good example of partnership working between all the key stakeholders in the town and we welcome the opportunity to work with all agencies in the future to ensure that the aims of the Banbridge Development Strategy are realised.”

The Banbridge Town Strategy Document 2010 – 2015 aims to identify the key regeneration concepts and provides a coherent vision for the town, in relation to specific regeneration proposals for economic development, potential development sites and environmental improvements.

Notes to editors:

1. The Banbridge Development Strategy Document was produced by Douglas Wheeler Associates.
2. Banbridge Community Regeneration Ltd is a public/private partnership established to improve, promote and sustain the vitality, viability and long-term economic growth of the city centre.
3. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078/07970 976894. Out of office please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.