A multi-million pound contract for the pedestrian and cycle bridge in Strabane has been awarded.

The appointment for Fox Contracts, which will see the delivery of the Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge linking the Ballycolman and Fountain Street/Springhill areas of the town, has been welcomed by Minister for Social Development, Nelson McCausland and Regional Development Minister, Danny Kennedy.

"The bridge will be seen as a landmark throughout the town for both local residents and visitors providing an important link across the river for pedestrians and cyclists, creating better access to facilities. The construction of bridge will greatly enhance the on-going redevelopment of Strabane," said Social Development Minister, Nelson McCausland

-- Advertisement --

Regional Development Minister, Danny Kennedy added: "The move to the construction phase of the Strabane Footbridge Bridge is a very welcome development. My Department was very pleased to have been able to provide capital investment of some £873, 000 through our Active Travel programme to assist in making this project happen."

Forming a vital part of local redevelopment, the £3.2 million contract, part funded and managed by Strabane District Council has been described as integral to the 'Strabane Masterplan'. The plans include a £2.17 million investment from The Department for Social Development and a further £873,000 the Department of Regional Development. Over 2 million of this awarded for the construction work alone.

Chairman of Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairi McHugh said "I am delighted that this landmark project is going ahead and with the co-operation of Council, funders and the local community there will now be significant opportunity for regeneration within Strabane town."

With construction due to begin in the summer of 2014 and finished by the summer of 2015, enabling works are set to complete in the coming months to allow the main construction to get underway. A period of further community consultation will ensure residents are briefed on timescales and the works programme itself. Details to be announced shortly

(HMC/MH)