Stormont Regeneration Minister Margaret Ritchie has outlined her plans for a co-ordinated approach to proposed development in Glen Road in West Belfast.

There are 10 sites stretching along the Glen Road, which could be developed.

Minister Ritchie said: "The Glen Road Lands have great potential in helping to regenerate this part of west Belfast and indeed contribute to the inroads we are making in developing the entire city.

"It is important that government departments and agencies work together with developers on these lands to ensure that plans are taken forward in co-ordinated way.

The Minister said there must be the right balance of housing and public services such as retail, sporting and leisure facilities, as well as access to quality jobs and a good road network.

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Ms Ritchie said she had met with the Regional Development Minister to discuss a united approach to developing the Glen Road Lands.

"It is important that the appropriate long-term infrastructure is scheduled alongside our overall plans for the area. I will also be briefing my other Executive colleagues on this issue as it is taken forward."

Minister Ritchie said she has asked officials to set up a co-ordination group comprising senior officials from all the relevant government departments and agencies to take this work forward.

She explained: "A workshop involving these officials has already been held and existing and future plans are being considered to ensure that they maximise the potential of the Glen Road."

Ms Ritchie said she is very aware that existing development plans must be taken account of and that progress on providing much needed housing cannot be impeded.

"I am acutely aware that whatever development takes place must consider the needs of the people who will be living there in the future as well as recognising the possible impacts on current residents living in the vicinity of these lands.

"Consultation with the local community will be important as we move forward," she added.

(PR)