Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has announced an important step in the future regeneration of Ballynahinch with the launch of a master planning exercise.

The Ballynahinch Town Centre Masterplan will identify how regeneration opportunities within the town centre can be fully realised.

Minister McCausland said: "I am pleased to announce the commencement of the Ballynahinch Town Centre Masterplan. There are a number of prime opportunity sites such as the town’s historic Market House and Square, which if properly developed within an overall vision for the town centre, will enable Ballynahinch to attract more visitors and new businesses.

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"The town is well known for its local market and I am keen to enhance and develop this image and to promote Ballynahinch as a thriving market town. I look forward to seeing the plan being developed in a manner that strengthens the town centre whilst at the same time protecting the town’s unique character."

The masterplan will present a framework within which detailed proposals can be developed for a mix of business, tourism, leisure, public space and housing.

(CD)