Banbridge is a trailblazer for other towns - Attwood

Alex Attwood spoke to the Leader after viewing proposals for further improvements in Banbridge, set out by the council in co-operation with Banbridge Community Regeneration Ltd.

The Minister praised Banbridge as a “trailblazer” with other towns across Northern Ireland following in its footsteps as they try to improve their shopping and leisure facilities.

“It actually has become a trailblazer,” said Mr Attwood. “It is remarkable that you don’t have many derelict sites here and very few ‘to let’ signs.

“It’s a strong endorsement that this is a strong trading town and there will be a lot of towns round the north following in its footsteps.”

During a presentation made by Banbridge District Council’s Catriona Regan cited Rathfriland Street as a major priority for improvements.

Stating that the street has become a main route for people travelling into the town from the A1 and Solitude Park, the Director of Community and Enterprise Services said major improvements are required.

“A lot more people are using Rathfriland Street now especially since the development of Solitude Park last year,” said Ms Regan.

“We need to sort out the streetscape.”

While a substantial investment for the town’s “blueprint strategy document” was provided by developers at Bridgewater Park, initial funding for any improvements are being sought from the Department of Social Development.

Speaking to the crowd gathered at the Old Town Hall last week, Mr Attwood said he was convinced of the economic arguments behind the proposals and is fully supportive of them, but budget cuts may stand in the way of any financial support.

“If I can get funding I will,” said the Minister. “If I can move on this and create more certainty around it I will.”