A �100m plan to transform the seafront at one of Northern Ireland’s most popular coastal towns will create around 1,750 jobs, it was announced today.
Up to 1,000 posts will be generated in the construction phase of the development fronting Bangor’s marina, with an additional 750 permanent jobs on offer when the commercial and entertainment facilities are finished.
A new 150-bedroom hotel, 60 shops, office units, an outdoor arts venue and a promenade are included in the regeneration plans for the Queen’s Parade area.
Launching a public consultation on the ambitious project, Social Development minister Margaret Ritchie said it would help unlock much of the Co Down town’s potential.
“The regeneration of Queen’s Parade offers a unique opportunity to regenerate Bangor town centre and waterfront,” said the SDLP minister.
A family entertainment centre is also earmarked for the site. The developer Karl Greenfarm also proposes a new pedestrianised street in the town centre with an additional 750 parking spaces.
Aran Blackbourne, Director of Karl Greenfarm, which is shouldering all of the project costs, said: “Bangor has a unique identity in an outstanding setting and we believe the marina has significant potential for an exciting mix of new uses to reinvigorate the waterfront and restore the town’s position as a prime destination with shoppers, families and tourists.”
“A retail-led scheme of this nature will provide a much-needed social and economic boost to the town, and will make a substantial contribution to the local economy by generating jobs and attracting investment to the area.
“We are confident that Marine Gardens will attract a strong tenant mix to strengthen and complement the existing town centre in addition to enhancing both the day and evening economies in the town.”
