THE long-delayed efforts to redevelop Queen’s Parade in Bangor have taken a step forward after a new planning application was submitted for the £50 million project.
Discussions to develop the seafront area have been in the mix since around 1997.
Some 23 years on, Bangor Marine Ltd, a consortium involving the Karl Group and Farrans, has submitted a fresh planning proposal.
The proposed scheme includes a hotel, a destination/cinema building, residential units, commercial/retail/restaurant space, office space, a play zone, basement car park, marketplace, courtyard squares and the refurbishment of existing commercial properties
It also envisions the development of a public realm space at Marine Gardens, combining external events space, cafes, a sheltered promenade and kiosks. The proposal also includes a beach, seafront lawns, children’s play area and a water feature.
Welcoming the application, the Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey, said: “This is a huge step in the right direction for the redevelopment of Bangor’s town centre. We are one step closer to the £50m investment in Bangor, which will create much needed jobs, shops, offices and homes, and will create an attractive place for people to visit.
“Having seen the computer generated images, it is a genuinely exciting time for Bangor, breathing life and vitality back into the heart of the town.
“Now that the developer has submitted the planning application, I am encouraging everyone in Bangor to get involved, share their ideas, and make their voices heard in the consultation that follows.”
Aran Blackbourne, from Bangor Marine Ltd, said: “Submission of these plans follows a period of extensive and meaningful engagement with Ards and North Down Borough Council, the Department for Communities and, most importantly the people of Bangor.
“We welcome the overwhelmingly positive feedback received during our far-reaching pre-application community consultation and look forward to working with all project partners and statutory agencies to support a positive planning outcome.
“Bangor Marine is committed to progressing this application through to conclusion and hope to begin work on these exciting plans as soon as possible.”
