Traders to hold talks on regeneration

Traders to hold talks on regeneration

30 November 2011

TRADERS in Ballynahinch are due to meet later today with consultants who have been appointed to design the town’s environmental improvement scheme.

Members of Ballynahinch Chamber of Commerce are due to meet with representatives from White Young Green at the Millbrook Lodge Hotel.

The meeting is the first in a series expected to take place over the coming months to come up with an agreed scheme to help regenerate the town centre.

Subject to a satisfactory economic appraisal and the green light from Stormont Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland, work on the £2m project will start some time next year.

The main objective of the streetscape scheme is to enhance Ballynahinch’s commercial centre, increasing the number of shoppers and stimulating investment. Improvements will include new pavements, street lighting and the provision of new street furniture.

In order to progress the scheme, WYG consultants have been appointed to work up design options and to undertake consultation with the local community.

Mr. Kenny Bickerstaff of WYG said the firm will be responsible for delivering key aspects of the project, with the landscape architecture element provided by the Paul Hogarth Company and Economist Services by RSM McClure Watters.

“Working with Down Council and the people of Ballynahinch, we will bring our award winning experience of public realm and environmental improvement projects to improve the aesthetics of the town, encouraging further investment and developing the image of Ballynahinch as a thriving market town,” he added.

A steering committee comprising Ballynahinch councillors, Chamber of Commerce representatives and officials from statutory agencies has been established.

Councillor Anne McAleenan, who is the group’s chairwoman, said she’s “absolutely delighted” that Ballynahinch is finally moving forward.

“We have waited a long time to secure investment in the centre of the town and it’s very exciting to be in a position to begin work. I can assure the local community that the steering committee will work to ensure an appropriate scheme which has the support of all stakeholders will be developed,” she continued.

“Full consultation will be undertaken with all interested individuals and groups. Everyone will have their say in the development of the proposals for Ballynahinch,” she added.

Groups or individuals who have an interest in Ballynahinch and would like to contribute to the consultation process are asked to contact Margaret Quinn, Down Council’s project development manager on (028) 44 619876 or email margaret.quinn@downdc.gov.uk.

Chamber of Commerce president, Mr. Mark Murnin, said with the design process is underway, he hopes members of the Ballynahinch business community will make the most of the opportunity they are being given to discuss aspects of the proposed scheme with the consultants.