Hanson Announces Ł3.7 Million Makeover For Newcastle

21 September 2006
HANSON ANNOUNCES Ł3.7 MILLION MAKEOVER FOR NEWCASTLE
A Ł3.7 million improvement scheme for Newcastle, Co Down, has been announced by Social Development Minister David Hanson MP.
The plans include the re-alignment of roads, improved traffic management, increased lighting, upgrading of footpaths, provision of car parking spaces and street furniture. These improvements, which will be carried out in conjunction with the Department for Regional Development's Roads Service, will complement the work being carried out on the promenade by Down District Council.
During a visit to the town, Minister Hanson said: "This scheme is another milestone in the rejuvenation of Newcastle and will see much needed improvements made to the appearance of the town. The upgrade will benefit those living and working here and make the town more appealing to visitors and tourists alike.
"I believe that this scheme will be the catalyst for further developments in Newcastle and look forward to seeing the work completed by mid 2008."
The Chairperson of Down District Council, Councillor William Clarke, welcomed the support of the Department for Social Development (DSD) and the investment in Newcastle. He said: "Council is extremely pleased to be working in partnership with DSD and DRD Roads Service on this very important project for Newcastle. We see it as an integral part of the council's objective to regenerate Newcastle and to turn it into the gateway town for the Mournes."
NOTES TO EDITORS:
1. The total cost of the scheme is Ł3,742,000. This includes up to Ł3,500,000 from the Department for Social Development (DSD). The remaining funds are being provided by Department for Regional Development's (DRD) Roads Service.
2. The Main Street, Central Promenade, Donard Street, Railway Street and up to three laneways off the Main Street will benefit from the improvements.
3. Work on the scheme, which will be project managed by Down District Council in conjunction with DSD and DRD, will commence in January 2007 and is scheduled to be completed at the end of June 2008.
4. Down District Council will commence Phase 2 of its work on the promenade in September 2006 at a cost of Ł2.5million.

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