Alliance's North Down candidate, Stephen Farry, has welcomed the news that legislation enabling councils to address dilapidated buildings and sites will be introduced to the Assembly this year.

The Dilapidation Bill will be brought forward by his Alliance Party colleague Minister Andrew Muir as part of the Executive’s Legislative Programme for 2024.

In a statement, Mr Farry said: "This legislation will have a hugely positive impact on North Down and is another example of Alliance delivering for people here.

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"Andrew and I share the concern of many that buildings left to deteriorate are a blight on our villages, towns and city, and at worst can be a danger to the public. It is not right that communities are left to suffer when buildings are not looked after; it is to the detriment of our high streets and often our built heritage.

"Locally, these new powers will enable Ards and North Down Borough Council to take action to address areas of concern, for example, the issues that have been raised on Holywood and Millisle high streets as well as Bangor City Centre. The legislation could be a game changer for neighbourhoods and allow for swift action to ensure dilapidation is dealt with.

"I look forward to seeing the legislation become law and am grateful to Minister Muir for his steadfast focus on delivering for people across Northern Ireland."