Minister Visits Antrim To Discuss Regeneration Of Town

20 March 2006
MINISTER VISITS ANTRIM TO DISCUSS REGENERATION OF TOWN
Social Development Minister David Hanson today visited Antrim to discuss the regeneration of the town with the Antrim Towns Development Company.
Mr Hanson said: "Antrim is a very historic town with many things in its favour including some fine buildings and a good location. However, there are also a number of issues that need to be dealt with if the town is to develop to its full potential. I am pleased to have had the opportunity to meet the members of the Antrim Towns Development Company today to discuss these issues and explore what might be done to address them."
Mr Hanson added: "The Department for Social Development is currently working alongside Antrim Borough Council, the Roads Service and other organisations to look at various development proposals for the town centre. In the meantime, I am pleased to say that we are continuing to support the development of the town by providing a grant of Ł75,000 to support the marketing and promotion of the town and working on behalf of the International Fund for Ireland with the Antrim Towns Development Company to redevelop one of the most prominent buildings in the town centre."
During his hour long visit to the town, the Minister discussed a range of issues including traffic issues, improvements to the public realm and possible developments on some of the key sites in the town centre.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
1. During the visit, the Minister met a delegation which included: William McCrea MP; Cllrs Oran Keenan, John Smith and Danny Kinahan of Antrim Borough Council; and the members of the Antrim Towns Development Company - Mrs Jacqueline Coulter; Jim Delargy, Gerard Harman, Andy Little, Liz McNair and Theresa Murray.
2. For further information, contact the DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078

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