By Donal McMahon
A masterplan for the development of Downpatrick is set to be launched this September following approval this week of a ‘Living High Street Framework’.
The Downpatrick Regeneration Working Group (DRWG) organised through the local authority to forge the plan, has been engaged for almost a year.
The Department for Communities with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council (NMDDC)has now identified funds to deliver projects, which will include cultural events, public realm initiatives and restoration projects for the county town.
Downpatrick SDLP rep Conor Galbraith said: “We are happy to support the proposal.
“The framework seems to be a fantastic opportunity to avail of future funding.
“Seems to be a fresh approach and it will hopefully continue to identify and address some of the needs within Downpatrick.
“I just want to commend the work that has been completed to date by the High Street scheme and I am looking forward to the positive impact that is it going to have on the local vicinity of Downpatrick.”
A vision for the town had been developed as part of a £30,000 masterplan created at the old Down District Council over 10 years.
However, since the creation of Northern Ireland’s new super councils, the old masterplan had been effectively shelved.
The enterprise, generation and tourism committee approval for the new, as yet undisclosed Downpatrick plans, will now go to full council to be ratified.
ENDS
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