Social Development Minister Alex Attwood has announced the launch of a draft masterplan for Magherafelt town centre.

The purpose of the masterplan is to provide strategic guidance for the regeneration and development of the town centre over the next 15 years.

Proposals include:

* new paving, lighting and street furniture in Market Street, Broad Street and other areas throughout the town;

* developing sites for retail, commercial residential and leisure opportunities;

* the provision of new signage and information throughout the town at key locations and the creation of a heritage trail;

* improving parking facilities in the town centre and undertaking a traffic and transport study to inform future policy after the bypass has been constructed; and

* improving pedestrian and vehicle access through out the town.

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Alex Attwood said: “The draft masterplan is a boost for Magherafelt town centre. The proposals show some innovative and exciting ideas to help regenerate and secure continuing investment in the town. In my view, there is a good argument that pound for pound, government investment in urban regeneration is as effective an economic tool as other job interventions.

“A revitalised town centre will help ensure that Magerafelt further establishes itself as Mid Ulster’s retail hub. The proposals are important and I want the people of Magherafelt and surrounding areas to have their say. This will ensure that the final documents will represent the views of the people who will be directly affected by developments.”

Chairperson of Magherafelt District Council, Councillor Anne Forde, commented: “As Chairperson of Magherafelt District Council, I welcome this consultation process on the Magherafelt Town Centre Masterplan. I would encourage people to come along and view the proposals in the Meadowlane Shopping Centre or in the Council Offices, and don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to have your say on the future plans for Magherafelt Town Centre.”

A manned exhibition of the plans will be on display from Monday 24 January to Friday 28 January at the Meadowlane shopping centre, during normal opening hours. After that, the plans will be on display at the same location and in Magherafelt District Council offices until Friday 4 March during normal hours. Members of the public are invited to view the proposals and to provide feedback using response sheets provided at each venue.

(GK)