NI Environment Minister Edwin Poots has launched a Design Guide for the Magee Conservation Area, which provides advice for residents and prospective developers.

The Minister said: "The designation of the Magee Conservation Area in June 2006 recognised the distinctive qualities of this area of special architectural interest. It was an acknowledgement of the city’s unique built heritage and a further indication of my department’s continuing commitment to conservation.

"The guide is an essential support mechanism for the designation and seeks to promote a high standard of design, which will help conserve or enhance the individual character and appearance of the Magee Conservation Area and protect the special quality of its townscape for the benefit of future generations.

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"It also seeks to promote conservation-led regeneration which can make a contribution to economic vitality and growth by offering an attractive living and working environment."

Minister Poots also launched 'Conservation Information Leaflet (No.15): Conservation Areas in Northern Ireland'. The leaflet aims to promote a greater understanding of the role and importance of conservation areas throughout Northern Ireland.

The Minister added: "The leaflet explains the importance of conservation areas and the legal framework leading to their designation.

"It provides information on policy considerations to be taken into account in the determination of planning applications and the implications of conservation area designation for property owners. It also contains information and advice on the advantages of designation and how we all can play a part in ensuring that our conservation areas are conserved or enhanced."

(NS)