The Alliance Party has welcomed news that a planning application for the restoration and conservation of Cultra Station House looks set to get the green light.

The disused Railway building has been under the control of Ireland's 'bad bank' NAMA, but could be turned into residential units - with its listed status protected - if the Northern Ireland Environment Agency's Built Heritage specialists give the proposals the go-ahead.

North Down Councillors Larry Thompson and Andrew Muir - who lobbied NAMA and were involved in facilitating the sale to protect the listed site - praised the move and highlighted the valuable role played by the Holywood Conservation Group in securing the future of the site.

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Councillor Larry Thompson said: "Cultra Station House is a historic site in our area and one which must be protected. Since discovering its future was under threat I have worked closely with Councillor Andrew Muir and the Holywood Conservation Group to ensure we don't lose another important piece of our heritage.

"I welcome the news a planning application has now been made, which looks set to protect the building's listed status and restore the area to its former glory. I hope The Northern Ireland Environment Agency will be able to work with the applicant to ensure the former character of the building is best upheld, while allowing the new plans to progress.

"I must also praise the work of the Holywood Conservation Society. Without their tireless work and campaigning we could not have guaranteed securing a stable future for Cultra Station House. The hours of hard work have been worth it and I want to commend everyone involved."

(CD/MH)