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A multi-million pound regeneration scheme in Bangor which could breath new life into the seaside town has been given the green light.

Planning permission for the overhaul of Queen's Parade in the seaside town, which has become run down in recent years, was secured at a committee meeting on Tuesday.

This gives permission for the development of a new hotel, restaurants and cafes, theatre space, homes and offices.

Social Development Minister, Mervyn Storey MLA, said the proposal would "restore Bangor’s reputation as a key tourist and shopping destination".

He said: “Bangor is considered to be one of the most desirable places to live in Northern Ireland, despite being tarnished by the dereliction around Queen’s Parade. This planning approval is a key step in the process to regenerate and inject new life into the Queen’s Parade area of Bangor.

“This proposal will transform Queen’s Parade into an attractive, vibrant, inclusive place for everyone to enjoy. The area of Marine Gardens currently in use as a car park will be transformed into an area of high quality open space, with the creation of a courtyard plaza and high quality open public space. Also included in this area will be new play equipment, landscaping, a bandstand and covered walkways. I have no doubt that this proposal will act as a catalyst for the wider regeneration of Bangor town centre.

Mr Storey added: "I am delighted to announce that my Department has secured full planning permission for a major regeneration proposal that will restore Bangor’s reputation as a key tourist and shopping destination.

A recommendation to give planning approval from the Department of the Environment, was endorsed by North Down Borough Council’s Planning Committee at its meeting on Tuesday.

The development will see in excess of 25,000 sq metres of floor space utilised to support the regeneration of the Queen’s Parade area.

Environment Minister Mark H Durkan said: "It will be a real boost for the people of Bangor and visitors alike transforming dereliction into a vibrant new beginning. Our recommendation is the culmination of extensive community consultation with key stakeholders and the public to ensure the best decision was made."

Mayor of North Down, Councillor Peter Martin added: "The development of Queen's Parade will complement the existing regeneration work in the town and inject new life into Bangor seafront."

This approval now gives permission for the development of:



· 72 apartments;

· 8 terraced dwelling houses;

· A flexible theatre/performance space;

· New business/office space;

· A range of new hotel accommodation;

· New restaurants/cafes;

· A multi-storey car park comprising 351 spaces;

· New accesses at King Street and Southwell Road;

· Creation of new open shared space along Marine Gardens and;

· Relocation of Project 24’s colourful art pods and covered event space



