Regeneration plans for five deprived areas of Belfast have been opened for public consultation.

Launching the formal consultation period, Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie said the plans essentially aim to improve living standards for communities in east Belfast, York Road/Shore Road, the Crumlin Road, the Lower Shankill, and the Lower Falls.

Proposals have been put forward to create pedestrian-friendly areas that are well connected to the city centre.

Plans have also highlighted key locations for public or private sector intervention, with a variety of business, housing and community uses.

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Ms Ritchie said the areas identified are failing to deliver their economic potential and do not fully serve their local communities.

"By setting out a shared vision for the physical regeneration of these areas, we can take a first step to reversing this trend and drawing private investors back into the areas."

The Minister said that the Masterplans were conceptual in nature, but emphasized that, once agreed, they could be used to secure the funding needed to deliver the various ‘catalyst’ projects proposed.

Private sector schems will also have a key role to play, with the Minister confirming private developers were among those she wished to hear from in the consultation.

"It is important that we hear the views of everyone who has a stake in these areas: local residents, community groups, local businesses and private developers," she added.

(PR/KMcA)