A west Tyrone MP has said the green light for a £250m Omagh investment plan could create 300 new jobs.

Pat Doherty, MP for the area, said planned development on the town’s Derry Road includes a hotel, offices, shops and leisure facilities.

On Tuesday, a call was made at a district council meeting for the developers to bring forward plans.

A Council spokesperson said proposals made by a developer could see "major investment".

"The developer has requested the opportunity to make a presentation to Omagh District Council on the proposal," the spokesperson said.

-- Advertisement --

If given the go-ahead, Mr Doherty said the international investment group’s plans would signal a "huge vote of confidence" in the area.

"Following on the heels of the recent economic investment conference, this proposal has the potential to really transform the local and regional economy and put Omagh firmly on the map as an area for investors," Mr Doherty told the BBC.

"During the meetings that I have had with the investment group, they have cited the suitability of Omagh for investment by reference to its infrastructure, geographical location, a skilled local workforce as well as having a dynamic and forward thinking local council."

"This unprecedented proposal clearly demonstrates that Omagh is well and truly open for business and we are poised and ready to deliver," the MP added.

In 1998 Omagh suffered one of the worst atrocities of the Troubles, when a Real IRA bomb ripped through the town centre - taking 31 lives - including unborn twins.

(PR)