The Minister for Social Development has launched the draft 'South West Gateway Masterplan'.

Minister Mervyn Storey confirmed the plan sets out a new vision to regenerate the Boucher Road and Andersonstown Road areas of south and west Belfast.

The Masterplan aims to identify a range of actions that will underpin the regeneration of one of Belfast's economic areas and will be open to consultation at a number of public events in the coming months.

Minister Storey said: "The South West area of Belfast is a vital node of economic and social activity within the City. Over the last number of years the area, like many others, has suffered the effects of the economic downturn.

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"In partnership with Belfast City Council and the South and West Belfast Partnership Boards, my Department commissioned the completion of a Masterplan for the area, designed to steer regeneration across this area and surrounding communities.

"The draft Masterplan includes exciting proposals to challenge major issues such as air quality and community interfaces. It also includes actions to reduce traffic congestion, improve transport connections and construct pedestrian and cycle corridors. Another interesting aspect of the draft plan is the proposed development of a new bridge. I would call on anyone with an interest in the proposals, and in the area to come along to the consultation events and have their voice heard."

The study area extends from the Falls and Andersonstown Roads in the West, easterly to the main railway line and from Stockman’s Lane in the south to the Bog Meadows and Windsor Park in the north. Bordering the study area are the neighbourhoods of The Village, Donegall Road, Falls Road, Andersonstown and Lisburn Road.

(CDMH)