A masterplan has been launched to improve the Greater Ballysillan area in north Belfast.

The Greater Ballysillan Masterplan proposes the creation of a sustainable neighbourhood, as well as a new civic and commercial centre at Ballysillan Road that could bring improved retail, leisure and recreation provision to the local community.

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Social Development Minister Meryvn Storey said: "The Greater Ballysillan area, along with many other areas within North Belfast, has low rates of economic activity, low educational attainment, poor health rates and complex spatial and environmental issues when compared to other parts of the city or the region as a whole.

"Faced with areas of poor infrastructure, dereliction and urban decline it was decided that the best approach to tackling the many complex issues that are evident within the Greater Ballysillan area was through a masterplanning exercise."

(CD/JP)