A local contractor, SIAC Construction, NI has been appointed as contractor to undertake a major development project in the historic city of Armagh.

The Public Realm Scheme was being discussed by NI Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie when she met with representatives from the contractors while in the city today to hear about its future regeneration plans.

The Minister said: "My Department is funding the development of a master plan that will include investment in physical regeneration, transport and opportunities for the private sector.

"It will help develop regeneration schemes, underlining Armagh's potential to become a truly sustainable small city," she explained.

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The Minister met members of the Armagh City Advisory Group who will be consulted as part of the development of the master plan.

The group is made up of public and private sector representatives who have the common goal of regenerating Armagh City and after the meeting the Minister added: "The development of this master plan requires extensive consultation with the public and private sector interests, as well as the local community and will be completed during 2008.

"I have no doubt it will help transform Armagh City."

During her visit, the Minister also met members from the Armagh City and District Council who briefed her on the progress made on the future development of the City Gaol.

The Minister said: "In March, I welcomed the £5.7 million investment in the Armagh city public realm scheme. The scheme is now a reality with work commenced on the ground.

"It will provide a major facelift to a number of city centre streets and help ease congestion by reducing through traffic and improving provision for parking and deliveries," she said, noting that the DSD is contributing a total of £3.64 million to Armagh Public Realm Scheme.

Roads Service is also contributing £330,000 with Armagh City and District Council providing the remainder.

(BMcC)