Injecting new life into town centre

The Regional Manifesto for Northern Ireland was launched by the Association of Town Centre Management, an umbrella body which represents towns and cities across the United Kingdom and Ireland, including 21 cities and towns in Northern Ireland.

The idea behind the manifesto is for Northern Ireland town centres to speak with one voice, clearly stating what they need if they are to be successful centres of community and drivers of the economy.

The manifesto was launched by the Social Development Minister Alex Attwood at a special function in the Long Gallery in Stormont.

Andrew Irvine, Chairman of the Northern Ireland Region of the ACTM said: “As funding of public services is severely challenged, we need strong centres of community, accessible to all. They must provide community services, social infrastructure and not just large shopping sheds. Our town centres still account for two thirds of all retail spend. In a struggling economy it is vital that we realise how important town centres are to the economy.

“Our town centres are competing in an unfair contest, with out of town sites offering thousands of free car parking spaces and lower non domestic rates valuation per square foot.

“We need joined up, streamlined government that does not allow planning consents from DOE that are contrary to, or in competition, with master plans by DSD. We need government that does not leave major planning policies in draft form for 10 years.”

Social Development Minister, Alex Attwood said: “I am firmly committed to the development of towns and cities across Northern Ireland. I am in no doubt of the huge contribution they make to the Northern Ireland economy. In my view, there is a good argument that pound for pound, investment in urban regeneration is as effective an economic tool as other job interventions. Thriving towns and cities can act as a catalyst for inward investment and tourism.”