Derelict buildings to get a spruce up

Derelict buildings to get a spruce up

6 February 2013

DOWN Council has secured a slice of a £1m funding cake to help breathe new life into a number of derelict buildings.

The local authority is to receive £60,000 from the Department of Environment to help regenerate buildings in the Downpatrick, Newcastle and Ballynahinch areas.

Council officials are currently liaising with a number of property owners in each town and hope to be able to publish the list of buildings which are to benefit from the government-funded scheme in the near future.

Environment Minister Alex Attwood described the funding package as “good news for many areas” and a further step on his programme to attack dereliction across Northern Ireland.

He added: “Downpatrick, Ballynahinch and Newcastle will benefit from the funding boost in these historic and seaside areas. If we want tourists to stay longer, if we want more tourists to come, then tackling major eyesores and dereliction will certainly help,” he said.

“I commend the hard work shown by councils who have received this financial package and also the efforts being made by others to pursue it. I will also continue to look at all proposals to expand and develop this dereliction and dilapidation programme.”

News of the cash windfall has been welcomed by South Down MP Margaret Ritchie and Newcastle councillor Willie Clarke.

Miss Ritchie said during a recession it’s vital every effort is made to assist traders and the tourism industry in making town centres pleasant and welcoming places.

“Derelict buildings are not only an eyesore, but can be a disincentive for new business, shoppers and visitors to the area.

I am pleased Down Council’s funding bid has been successful.

“The proposed improvements to derelict buildings will assist in improving the retail and tourism environment in Down District and are very welcome at this time,” the MP added.

Councillor Clarke has praised local authority staff working on the initiative and their efforts to identify areas that would be eligible for funding.

He also revealed a number of buildings at Newcastle harbour, which have fallen into dereliction, are in line for a cosmetic face-lift.

“It’s important that the streetscape and architecture is of a high quality in our towns. While this is a small amount of funding, it will go a long way to improving the image of our district for tourists and locals alike.”

Councillor Clarke said it’s in everyone’s interest that the district’s towns look as inviting as possible.

A spokeswoman for Down Council said the organisation is delighted that its application for funding has been successful.

“In its application the council proposed a number of potential properties in each of the three towns which could benefit from the funding. Council officials will now liaise with the property owners and determine which properties to progress,” she added.