It was announced on Monday planning permission had been granted for a ‘mixed use’ development on the edge of the town.
The MLA for Strangford said: “This announcement is excellent news for the Newtownards area, which will benefit from the various new services available in this new development.
“In a time when the job market remains volatile, this announcement will boost employment opportunities locally and must be celebrated.
“However I should add a word of concern over the amount of time this announcement has taken. This development has been earmarked for many years but due to a flawed planning process these vital services have been denied to local people until now.”