Work has got underway to transform a prominent site in Antrim into a new green recreation space.

A sod cutting ceremony was held to mark the beginning of construction at Ulster Bar Corner.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Alderman Stephen Ross was joined by Department for Communities (DfC) Director for Regional Development, Gerard Murray to celebrate the occasion.

When complete, the new look space will be available for pop-up markets, dedicated business meeting pods, fun days, pop-up cinemas and music concerts.

It will also be a space for the wider community to use and Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council is encouraging schools, church groups, fitness clubs and community organisations to make plans to use the space to enhance their provision.

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Speaking at the event the Mayor said: "Ulster Bar Corner has lay vacant for many years, I am pleased the Council are utilising this great space which will serve the local community. This is just one of the many projects planned to regenerate Antrim Town Centre, creating job opportunities and attracting visitors to the area."

Department for Communities Director for Regional Development Gerard Murray added: "Ulster Bar Corner is a prominent site in the centre of Antrim that has sat derelict for some time. I welcome this collaborative initiative to create a meanwhile use for the community while we continue to work closely with our colleagues in Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and other stakeholders to determine the long-term future of the site."

Works at Ulster Bar Corner are due to be completed by the summer of 2023.