A new half million pound public realm scheme has kicked-off in Cookstown.

The scheme is designed to create a civic space in the Burn Road area of the town centre and compliment the civic buildings such as the Burnavon Theatre.

Plans are also afoot to transform Burn Road, creating a more useable space capable of hosting public events.

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Launching the project, Regeneration Minister Margaret Ritchie said: "This historic market town will greatly benefit from the planned works, which will create a central focal point for the town. It will provide an excellent space for civic and community events. I announced this significant public realm scheme last year and welcome its start."

The scheme will include hard and soft landscaping, new street furniture, paving and re-surfacing. Construction should commence in May and be completed this year.

During the visit, the Minister met the Friends of Lissan Trust and heard about plans for the restoration of nearby listed Lissan House.

(PR/JM)