PEOPLE in Ardglass are to be consulted about the future development of The Meadow area in the village.
A public meeting was held last weekend to discuss ambitious plans to regenerate the area and the potential for a new 3G soccer pitch which would be used by Ardglass FC. Now villagers are to be formally consulted about the way forward.
The meeting was addressed by councillor Stephen Burns, the chairman of Down Council’s Recreation and Community Services Committee and joining him was councillor Gareth Sharvin.
Describing Sunday night’s meeting as “overly positive,” councillor Burns said he believed the people of Ardglass are ready to move forward together for the benefit of the whole community.
“Last weekend’s meeting was just the beginning of a process which will hopefully see The Meadow developed into something which will benefit all sections of this diverse community,” he continued.
“The meeting allowed those with both hopes and concerns about any redevelopment to air their views and discuss them. All the various points have been taken on board by myself and the council committee. It’s my hope that we can now move forward with what I believe is an exciting project.”
Councillor Burns said he hopes the redevelopment will satisfy those who live close to The Meadow and those who will use this part of the village for sport and recreation.
He added: “A consultation process regarding the project will begin within the next few months and I would encourage everyone to contribute to the process in order to get a clear picture of what Ardglass as a community wants to see happen to this site.”
Councillor Sharvin said the focus of last weekend’s meeting was to create an open a platform for discussion about redeveloping The Meadow in Ardglass.
“Down Council has agreed to fund a feasibility study on the way forward. I proposed this course of action as it will provide a key tool in identifying the needs of the Ardglass community and create a plan for the future of the village,” he explained.
“Throughout Sunday’s meeting there was agreement that the current condition of The Meadow was unacceptable for the people of Ardglass. The community want to see improvements and I want these to reflect the needs of everyone in the community.”
Councillor Sharvin said last weekend’s meeting was only the beginning of discussions around the plans for The Meadow and indeed for Ardglass.
He added: “I have listened to both support for the redevelopment and some small concerns and have taken these on board. What we can take from the meeting is that the people of Ardglass are in support of The Meadow being improved.
“The community has created a positive image of the way forward for the village and I pledge my support for ensuring Ardglass is not left behind.”