Alliance Councillor Brian Pope has welcomed the planning submission for a £24 million Games of Thrones tour and visitor centre in Banbridge.

Plans for the attraction at the Linen Mill Studios, which would create almost 200 new jobs for the area, will go on show this week. It will house sets, props, costumes and more from the hit TV show.

Banbridge Councillor Mr Pope said given the investment and potential visitor numbers, it was a fantastic opportunity for the area.

“I met with the senior managers at Linen Mill Studios in November to discuss the benefits of this unique attraction for Banbridge and the wider area. We also discussed forging positive links with the town centre and the local community, and local road impacts.

“At the council’s Economic Development Committee meetings I have spoken positively about these proposals and I want to commend council officers for all their hard work.

“I therefore welcome the investment, the potential boost for local jobs and the benefits to our leisure and tourism industry, not to mention the potential boost to our creative industries and local educational centres.

“Game of Thrones is an internationally recognised franchise, produced by one of the world’s largest television studios. Put simply, this could place Banbridge firmly on the world stage.”