Paving the way for £315k Main Street refurbishment scheme
BALLYCLARE'S Main Street is to get new granite paving as part of a £315,000 refurbishment scheme, it has been revealed.
Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie this week approved funding for the project which will include the replacement of the existing street surfaces with new granite paving on the footway from the Square along Main Street to Avondale Drive.
The announcement comes after it emerged last week that a specialist consultancy team is to be appointed to draw up plans for the regeneration of the town. Work on that plan is due to start later this month.
New paving at the Square has transformed the centre of Ballyclare, but, after a recent visit to the town, Mrs Ritchie claimed Main Street looked "run down" by comparison.
"Driving forward regeneration is challenging in this current difficult economic climate. I am confident, however, that this new scheme, linking Main Street to the town centre, will help stimulate private investment and contribute to the revitalisation of this spirited town," she said.
"The Public Realm Scheme I opened in September transformed the area around the Square, making a real difference for the local businesses, the local people and the many visitors here.
"During my visit however, it was apparent that Main Street looked run down by comparison and it was necessary to engage with statutory agencies to bring about change and redevelopment."
The Mayor, alderman John Scott, commented: "The Council is delighted at this vote of confidence in the future of Ballyclare. This work to revamp the town's Main Street will compliment the Square area."
Niall McConkey, President of Ballyclare Chamber of Trade, added: "The replacement of the paving and lighting along Main Street will create a welcome entrance to the town and will stimulate private sector investment in Ballyclare."
The estimated overall cost of the new scheme is 335,000 and funding will be provided by the Department for Social Development (315,000) and Newtownabbey Borough Council (20,000).
The scheme will be managed and delivered by DRD Roads Service.
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Weather for Newtownabbey
Tuesday 07 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 4 C to 7 C
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