The North Down Alliance Party has welcomed news Bangor Central Integrated Primary School has been given the green light for a new build following a long campaign.

Local Alliance representatives have worked behind the scenes for many years pursing the need for a new build, alongside staff, Board of Governors and Parents.

North Down MP Stephen Farry said: “This is welcome news for a school which has long outgrown its current premises and I want to pay tribute to all who have worked hard to make this happen despite the numerous difficulties and challenges encountered. With more and more families opting for integrated education for their children this must be the first step towards a much more significant increase in Integrated Education provision across North Down.

Andrew Muir MLA said: “Hearing news that a new build has finally been approved was strong testament to everyone at Bangor Central Integrated Primary who have shown great tenacity and forbearance along the long hard road towards this announcement. Whilst it would have been ideal if Bangor Central Integrated Primary could have remained in the Town Centre this regretfully has not proven possible. I am however determined to assist in whatever way possible to ensure sustainable and affordable travel solutions are provided to the site at Balloo. The Staff, Governors, Parents and Children attending Bangor Central Integrated Primary deserve our full support.”

Stephen Farry concludes: “While the Balloo option seems to be the only alternative for the rebuild of Bangor Central, we do need to mindful of the overall spatial distribution of primary schools in Bangor, with the looming absence of an option in the Town Centre and Ballyholme PS the only school on the East side of the town inside the Ring Road by contrast there will shortly by five schools in a similar area outside the Ring Road. This is something that the Education Authority will need to consider regarding future decisions on provision.”