6 September 2005
HANSON SEEKS AMBITIOUS CITY CENTRE DEVELOPMENT PLANS
Social Development Minister David Hanson has asked two major developers for ambitious plans to revitalise Castle Court and Royal Avenue in Belfast.
The Minister has issued Development Briefs to William Ewart Properties and Westfield Shoppingtowns seeking their views, with supporting evidence, on the market potential and regeneration of these important areas.
He said: "Last month I approved the Masterplans for the North East and North West Quarters, which set out the next steps for the revitalisation of Belfast City Centre.
"I have asked the developers to respond within three months. Based on the information I receive, I intend to make an early decision on the quantum, timing, and sequencing of the developments to complement existing regeneration projects including Victoria Square.
"We are looking for exciting new proposals that will improve the quality of the shopping experience, potentially create thousands of new jobs and a vibrant city that will rival any in Europe."
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- In the event that William Ewart Properties Ltd or Westfield Shoppingtowns Ltd fails to respond adequately or appropriately to the Development Briefs for the respective quarters, DSD reserves its right to engage in discussions with other parties who have expressed a desire to take this opportunity forward.
- The offer of Development Briefs on a first opportunity basis to William Ewart Properties Ltd and Westfield Shoppingtowns Ltd cannot be transferred by either developer to a third party.
- Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078.
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