Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has announced outline planning permission for a huge mixed use development in Newtownards.

The development could provide up to 400 jobs and will occupy 10.3 hectares, and will transform the currently derelict Crepe Weavers Factory site in Newtownards.

The development includes industrial, leisure and business units; two nursing homes; a 100 bed hotel; a neighbourhood centre to include a crèche/nursery, retail units, a Health Centre and a bank; several hot food outlets; a petrol filling station and 96 residential units.

The application is an Article 31 planning application, that is, one of such a large scale that the Minister makes the decision whether to approve or reject.

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Mr Durkan said: "This will be a tremendous economic and social boost for the area. This 10 hectare site has been derelict for some time and its redevelopment will provide a much needed employment boost for the town, while providing valuable community and tourism facilities.

"A significant part of the site will be reserved for industrial purposes and the mixed use components will also generate much needed employment. I have sought to ensure that the non-industrial units cannot proceed on their own by including a planning condition to build a number of industrial units at the outset.

"The development has the potential to accommodate as many jobs as the factory once supported at its peak and represents the best opportunity to improve the appearance and vibrancy of the site at its gateway location on the southern edge of the town. The local shopping and community facilities will be used by residents within the site and beyond and will also attract visitors and benefit from passing trade."

(CD/JP)