The newly formed Downpatrick Regeneration Working Group has held its first ever meeting.

The Group aims to deliver work to deliver an ambitious shared vision for the town, undertaking a strategic review of the town centre.

At a meeting in Denvir's Hotel, Downpatrick on 28 September, Malachy McGrady was appointed Chair and Cllr Dermot Curran was appointed Vice-Chair of the group.

Recognising the huge potential of Downpatrick, the group will encompass elected members, Council officers, business and community representatives and other government departments such as the Department for Communities and Department for Infrastructure as required.

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Chair, Malachy McGrady said: "This is a great opportunity for all stakeholders and statutory bodies to work together to benefit Downpatrick. I want to work on priorities already identified as well as adding to the list, and identify short, medium and long-term solutions. The group will commence work right away."

Vice Chair Cllr Dermot Curran added: "I look forward to working with the Chair in this important role. We all need to work together to build on the positives already in Downpatrick and recognise the huge potential we have right on our doorstep. We will provide a platform for local businesses, help secure funding, and drive new investment and footfall into the town centre."