Infrastructure Minister Conor Murphy has launched a conference aimed at revising the Regional Development Strategy (RDS).

The revised strategy - described by the Minister as a blueprint for growth - will set out a long term vision for development in the province.

"A revised RDS will provide clear directions about how all places can maximise their development potential and provide guidance at a local level," said Mr Murphy.

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Mr Murphy said a revised regional plan must also look at how places work together.

"To be a successful region requires a strong Belfast and a vibrant North West centred on Derry.

"It will be important that there is joined up approach between our cities, towns and smaller settlements if success is to be achieved.

A series of local information events are planned for November and early December.

Mr Murphy said: "I want to hear as wide a range of views as possible.

"To help achieve this, I have arranged for a series of local stakeholder events during November and early December.

"These will be based on the 11 new Council areas. They will be used to get views on issues which influence how places can maximise their development."

The Department plans to publish a revised document for consultation in Spring 2009.

(PR)