A call has been made for the people of Newtownards to have their say on the redevelopment of the town centre.

Minister Ritchie is in the Co Down town today to view an exhibition outlining draft Masterplan proposals on display in the Town Hall, Conway Square.

The Masterplan identifies the key town centre sites for regeneration along with suggested timings for works over the next 20 years.

The Minister said: "The publication and exhibition of the draft masterplan provides a great opportunity for the people of Newtownards to come and see the proposals aimed at ensuring the long term viability and vitality of the town centre.

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"I am therefore calling on everyone with a vested interest in the future of the town to give their views on how the town should adapt, grow and develop over the next 20 years.

"The selection of local and independent retailers clearly demonstrates that the people of Newtownards are proud of their town.

"I believe this masterplan provides us with realistic proposals that will not only help to sustain the town’s present success and unique character, but also position the town so it can compete for investment long into the future.

"Stimulating investment may be challenging in these difficult economic times; however in order to sustain the economic vibrancy of the town, we must be ready to provide the development opportunities that will no doubt be taken up in the coming years."

(NS/BMcC)