29 December 2005

DEVELOPERS CHALLENGED TO REMOVE 'BLOT' ON ORMEAU LANDSCAPE

A four acre site on the Ormeau Embankment could be transformed into a mixed use light industrial, commercial and residential development.

The Department for Social Development (DSD) has invited development proposals for the derelict land at Ravenhill Reach in East Belfast.

Social Development Minister David Hanson MP said: "This is a prime development opportunity on a prominent location off the Ormeau Embankment, between two of Belfast's main arterial routes, the Ravenhill and Ormeau Roads and close to the River Lagan.

"The site is currently a blot on the landscape but it has the potential to bring significant benefits to Woodstock and Ballymacarrett wards which are part of the Inner East neighbourhood targeted in the Government's Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy.

"We want to see imaginative proposals that will create an attractive environment, creating new hope and encouraging people to once again invest work and live in this area."

Proposals should be submitted to Belfast Regeneration Office by 9 February 2006. The Department will then produce a shortlist and assess the proposals with Roads Service, Planning Service and Valuation and Lands Agency to select a preferred developer. The site will remain in DSD ownership until the developer completes the work to the required standard.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

1. For further information please contact the Information Office on 028 9082 9078.

2. Copies of the Development Brief can be obtained from

Belfast Regeneration Office
James House
2-4 Cromac Avenue
Gasworks Business Park
Ormeau Road
Belfast
BT7 2JA.

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