An east Belfast Sinn Féin representative has given a cautious welcome to £100m plans to develop the Odyssey arena complex.

Niall Ó Donnghaile was speaking after the Odyssey Trust filed for planning permission to build 800 residential units, two hotels and a promenade within the Titanic Quarter.

"Obviously any potential stimulation to the economy is welcome in the current climate, however any development of this scale must also secure the investment and support of the surrounding, established communities," said Mr Ó Donnghaile.

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This part of the east Belfast is seeing increased levels of economic stimulation with the development of Titanic Quarter, Sirocco Quays and now the Odyssey.

However, Mr Ó Donnghaile said it is essential that surrounding communities are consulted and involved with the process every step of the way.

"Given the fact that the Odyssey development will be financed entirely by private investment I am sure that other political and community representatives will share my concern that the project needs to be in line with the existing plans to develop the surrounding area's and communities and not in isolation," he said.

"I will be in contact with the Odyssey Trust over the coming days to highlight some of these concerns and look forward to hearing their contribution."

(PR/GK)