Traders hear of ‘Masterplan’

The Sentinel revealed details of the ‘Masterplan’ a few weeks ago, which aims to restore Limavady by sprucing up shop fronts, historic buildings and by hiding empty spaces devoid of development.

At a meeting of Limavady Borough Council last night, elected representatives were informed of recent progress of the Masterplan.

The Director of Development, in her monthly report, said: “Linenhall Street was to be the starting point for the area’s shop front improvement scheme. An information meeting of traders was convened for February 4, after a letter drop was done to each of the potentially-eligible buildings on the street. Officers are still, however, attempting to establish ownership on one or two of the properties.

“At the last Development meeting, members raised some concerns about commencing the scheme on Linenhall Street.

“It was suggested that the scheme begin on Linenhall Street as the next round of the public realm scheme will move to this street; the street is particularly derelict at this time; some post-funding conditions will be put in place – clawback in the case of sale, dereliction, or substantial changes.”

She continued: “Around eight of the business owners who were informed about the meeting on February 4 attended.

“The meeting was positive, though there were obviously a few unanswered questions which require further clarification through the expression of interest stage.

“In addition, the Development Services Manager will be organising a short meeting with the Planning Service representative on the scheme. The traders had a variety of queries about signage, shuttering, paint colours, and plastering. Hopefully this meeting will allow expressions of interest to be submitted more accurately.

“Expressions of interest will be submitted by February 23, and a further meeting with the Department for Social Development will be organised prior to the roll out of the scheme. In response to a query DSD has confirmed that it is not in a position to fund any work on residential properties.”

Linenhall Street is referred to as the “Western Gateway” to the town centre in the Masterplan. There had been broad agreement that the run-down nature of the area “warranted immediate attention.”