The developer behind plans for Northern Ireland’s tallest building 'Aurora' has announced plans to help fund the current £16m programme of improvements to Belfast’s streetscape and public realm.

Mervyn McAlister of McAlister Holdings says that he is willing to provide significant private funding towards the multimillion pound public sector scheme to improve the public realm. The company currently has proposals in the planning system for the 109m tall Aurora building which will have 37 floors and cost in the region of £90 million.

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Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie launched the 'Belfast Streets Ahead' scheme in June and Phase 1 is currently underway in the Cornmarket/Arthur Street area of the City. Over the next decade work will be undertaken throughout the City including Great Victoria Street.

Mervyn McAlister said: "Aurora will be an iconic building for Belfast and will help put Belfast on the international stage. It will have an absolutely massive impact for the Southern area of the City Centre and act as a catalyst for further investment. Improving the arterial routes and public spaces is vital to this regeneration. As such we have been in discussions with the Department of Social Development and the City Council about helping to contribute to the current £16m programme for improving the streetscape and public realm in the City."

(CL)