Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has announced the appointment of the contractor to carry out the public realm in Antrim town centre.

BSG Civil Engineering Ltd based in Maghera, Co. Londonderry will carry out the work in Market Square, High Street and Church Street, which will involve:

•the introduction of a new bus lane

•refurbishment of pavements and kerbs in high quality materials

•new street lighting and furniture

•soft landscaping

The total funding for the scheme amounts to £1.9million, including contributions from DRD Roads Service and Antrim Borough Council. Although the contract has now been awarded, work will not commence on site until after Christmas and the New Year. The contract period is 52 weeks and the scheme should therefore be complete before Christmas 2013.

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Minister McCausland said: "I welcome the start of this major scheme in Antrim town centre. It will encourage visitors, retailers and residents, and will be a great benefit to the regeneration of the town. I have seen how public realm improvement schemes in other towns have created a more attractive surrounding for pedestrians and shoppers encouraging them to visit and stay longer in the town centre.

"This scheme is a demonstration of my Department’s commitment to the regeneration of Antrim and I welcome the contributions of the Council and DRD. I am also pleased that the scheme has been supported and assisted by the local traders and political representatives, and I look forward to visiting the town on completion of the scheme to view the improvements personally."

(CD)