South Down MLA Caitríona Ruane has welcomed the beginning of a consultation process into the regeneration of Downpatrick's town centre.
Executive Minister Ms Ruane said: "Sinn Féin would welcome the beginning of a consultation process into the regeneration of Downpatrick’s town centre."
The MLA cited the success of a similar restoration scheme - completed in Newcastle - which significantly helped regenerate the area.
Ms Ruane called on all sectors of the community to come forward and voice expectations for the master plan.
"Obviously we would like to see as wide ranging a consultation process as possible involving all the key stakeholders in the Downpatrick area including residents to business owners and anyone else with concerns into this project," she said.
The assembly member is confident the project could generate many new jobs and commercial developments in the town.
"If implemented this project could see the centre of the town revamped creating further employment opportunities which would be welcomed in this economic climate," added Ms Ruane.
(PR/JM)
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