Have your say on plans to improve our town centres

Draft proposals for improving the social and economic hearts of the two local towns were unveiled by Social Development Minister Alex Attwood on Friday (June 18).

The draft masterplan for Ballyclare, where several traders have hit out in recent weeks over the lack of footfall in the town centre, includes the creation of a major new civic space, expanding the retail sector and developing leisure provision.

In Glengormley the vision for the future focuses on improving pedestrian access, developing retail/office provision and further residential development.

"This is a great opportunity for the people of Ballyclare and Glengormley to shape the future of their town centres. There has been significant and helpful public input to other masterplans and I have seen the value of this first hand. I hope the people in Ballyclare, Glengormley and the surrounding districts will participate in this process by viewing the proposals for the towns and letting us know their views and opinions. The creation of vibrant and welcoming town centres in Ballyclare and Glengormley will help us progress our shared vision for the future," Mr Attwood said.

"These are exciting proposals for the regeneration of Ballyclare and Glengormley town centres and we hope we can turn these visions into a reality. The consultation period offers a chance for all users of the town centres to have their say in shaping the future of Ballyclare and Glengormley and I would encourage local residents and traders to attend the consultation open days," added Newtownabbey Mayor, alderman Paula Bradley.

The draft proposals, drawn up by specialist consultants following close co-operation with Newtownabbey Borough Council and local advisory groups comprising statutory organisations and business representatives, will be on public display for an eight week consultation period from next week.

Read the full story and find out what's included in the draft proposals... see this week's Times