Alliance North Down Representatives have rolled out a bold, positive plan to reinvigorate Bangor Town centre, during a special public meeting focussed on post-covid recovery.

Newly named North Down representative Councillor Connie Egan, joined Andrew Muir MLA and Stephen Farry MP in an event designed to encourage as many local people as possible to come forward in the bid to rebuild the town.

Connie said: “It was fantastic to hear the range of ides coming forward at the event and the passion local people have for building a strong, welcoming community which boosts the local economy.

“After a tough few years and the onslaught of Covid has only served to decimate our town centre and without action now we risk being unable to salvage it. But this doesn’t have to be the end of the story.

“From adapting planning policy to enable more residential accommodation in the town centre, to securing sustainable models for economic growth and enabling much greater arts and cultural activity to making the bus and active travel options the way forward for accessing the town centre – Alliance has recently published it’s idea of a Green New Deal which signals the many options at our fingertips for delivering a revitalised Bangor.”

Andrew Muir added: “Across North Down there is a desire to see our local neighbourhoods, Towns and Villages revitalised and thriving for future generations to enjoy as a place they are proud to call home. That’s why I was delighted to join Connie in welcoming so many people into these discussions.

“The pandemic has shown us we can’t continue to function as we had been before and Bangor Town Centre is a clear example of that. Quick action, with new ideas can make the difference. That’s why it’s important we start to make the transition to a green economy – an economy that prioritises investment, wellbeing and the planet.”