SDLP Upper Bann MLA Dolores Kelly has welcomed news that the Department of Social Development is exploring ways of accelerating development of the Portadown Gateway sites.

Mrs Kelly was speaking after receiving a reply to a written question to DSD Minister Nelson McCausland, which said that, although no development plans for the area were on any current government work-plans, there were workshops scheduled for next month to assess the possibility of creating an Accelerated Development Zone in the area.

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She said: "Portadown continues to be in need of significant development, but the DSD has said that in order for a development brief to be issued, work needs to be done on the local infrastructure, particularly in terms of access onto the Northway, the strengthening of Shillington Bridge and supplementing car parking.

"I am heartened that the possibility of creating an Accelerated Development Zone is being explored in conjunction with Craigavon Borough Council, but I would urge the department to act swiftly in making its assessments."

(CD/GK)