Councillor Larry Thompson has welcomed news that the sale of Cultra Railway Station House has entered the final stages, with the historic listed building set to be refurbished and saved for future generations.

The North Down Councillor has been a vocal campaigner in the fight to save the local landmark and says he now looks forward to working with the purchaser to ensure plans for the refurbishment respect its listed status.

The building is currently owned by Ireland's 'bad bank' NAMA and in recent years has fallen into disrepair, now being on sale for a fraction of its original value.

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Councillor Larry Thompson said: "After a concerted campaign to Save Cultra Railway Station House I am delighted to report that contract has been signed, deposit paid and sale almost complete. With everything due to be finalised by Christmas many people are delighted to hear about this early Christmas Present for everyone across Holywood and beyond.

"I am particularly grateful to NI Environment Agency, Holywood Conservation Group, Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, Dominic Hannigan TD and the many other interested people and groups who helped bring the Save Cultra Station House campaign to this stage. Cultra Station House was designed by renowned architect Charles Lanyon, built in circa 1863 and listed in 2007 when threatened with demolition."

(CD)