Minister Ritchie meets Newry residents

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA, today visited Ardcarne Park in Newry to discuss regeneration proposals for the estate.

The Minister met local residents and completed a walkabout of the Estate to see the extent of work required.

Following the visit, the Minister said: “I welcomed the opportunity to meet the residents of Ardcarne Park and explain our regeneration proposals for the area. My Department and the Housing Executive have already planned extensive regeneration that will see the estate completely revitalised. There is a strong community desire to move forward and be part of the success of Newry City and we want to build on that. This is an exciting time for Ardcarne Park and I have given a commitment that I will be doing all in my power to ensure that work proceeds on schedule.”

An environmental improvement scheme is planned for 2009/10 at Ardcarne Park. It will include improvements to vehicle and pedestrian access, provision of car parking, provision of new railings and fencing and improvements to street lighting. Some existing houses will be altered to improve security and seven derelict houses will be demolished to make way for new social housing and a new road access.

Notes to Editors:

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