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06/02/2014
Other News In Brief
Durkan Welcomes NI Solar Farm
Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has welcomed an approval for Northern Ireland's first large-scale solar farm in Downpatrick.
The planning application by BNRG Northern Power for a 27-acre 5.1MW photovoltaic solar farm and sub-station will be capable of generating electricity to power more than 1,500 homes throughout its proposed 30-year life span.
The development represents an investment value of over £6m.
Commenting, Mr Durkan said: "This is good news for renewable energy in the East Down area. This type of development helps sustain our environment through the use of renewable energy and also supports economic regeneration through the creation of jobs. It is anticipated that over 50 jobs will be created during the construction phase alone.
"The speedy turnaround for determining this planning application demonstrates my commitment to improving service delivery and in this case, supporting the green economy."
Leila Webster Dies Aged 90
Northern Ireland actress Leila Webster has died at the age of 90.
Throughout her career, Ms Webster was known for her singing and theatre work as well as her one-woman comedy shows. She also worked alongside stars such as Bob Hope and Josef Locke.
Tributes have poured in, with many describing her as a "Belfast institution" and a "legend" of local theatre.
Leading the tributes, Culture Minister Carál Ní Chuilín said: "Leila was a remarkable woman, and an inspirational figure whose talent and enthusiasm will be sadly missed.
"A singer and performer who excelled on both stage and screen, Leila entertained audiences of all ages. Born off the Ormeau Road in Belfast, she began singing at the age of 10. It was the beginning of a career which evolved to show Leila's versatility across many disciplines – from comedy to drama, from opera to improvisation.
"Leila shared the stage with a range of stars, from James Young to Bob Hope. She left a lasting impression both audiences and those she worked with.
"Leila turned 90 last year, and the desire to perform was still apparent in a woman who entertained those at her birthday party.
"My thoughts are with her family and friends at this time."
£120,000 Resurfacing Scheme For Dungiven
Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy has announced the start of a £120,000 major resurfacing scheme on the B64 Legavallon Road, Dungiven.
Preparatory works have started on the Legavalllon Road between the Drumsurn Road junction and Belraugh Road junction at the Pot.
Minister Kennedy said: "The scheme will benefit road users for many years to come. It will include the provision of a surface water drainage system and an improved running surface through the use of high quality surfacing materials."
Traffic control will be in operation during the normal working day however to facilitate resurfacing works a road closure will be required.
The project is expected to be completed by 28 February, subject to weather conditions.
(JP)
Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has welcomed an approval for Northern Ireland's first large-scale solar farm in Downpatrick.
The planning application by BNRG Northern Power for a 27-acre 5.1MW photovoltaic solar farm and sub-station will be capable of generating electricity to power more than 1,500 homes throughout its proposed 30-year life span.
The development represents an investment value of over £6m.
Commenting, Mr Durkan said: "This is good news for renewable energy in the East Down area. This type of development helps sustain our environment through the use of renewable energy and also supports economic regeneration through the creation of jobs. It is anticipated that over 50 jobs will be created during the construction phase alone.
"The speedy turnaround for determining this planning application demonstrates my commitment to improving service delivery and in this case, supporting the green economy."
Leila Webster Dies Aged 90
Northern Ireland actress Leila Webster has died at the age of 90.
Throughout her career, Ms Webster was known for her singing and theatre work as well as her one-woman comedy shows. She also worked alongside stars such as Bob Hope and Josef Locke.
Tributes have poured in, with many describing her as a "Belfast institution" and a "legend" of local theatre.
Leading the tributes, Culture Minister Carál Ní Chuilín said: "Leila was a remarkable woman, and an inspirational figure whose talent and enthusiasm will be sadly missed.
"A singer and performer who excelled on both stage and screen, Leila entertained audiences of all ages. Born off the Ormeau Road in Belfast, she began singing at the age of 10. It was the beginning of a career which evolved to show Leila's versatility across many disciplines – from comedy to drama, from opera to improvisation.
"Leila shared the stage with a range of stars, from James Young to Bob Hope. She left a lasting impression both audiences and those she worked with.
"Leila turned 90 last year, and the desire to perform was still apparent in a woman who entertained those at her birthday party.
"My thoughts are with her family and friends at this time."
£120,000 Resurfacing Scheme For Dungiven
Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy has announced the start of a £120,000 major resurfacing scheme on the B64 Legavallon Road, Dungiven.
Preparatory works have started on the Legavalllon Road between the Drumsurn Road junction and Belraugh Road junction at the Pot.
Minister Kennedy said: "The scheme will benefit road users for many years to come. It will include the provision of a surface water drainage system and an improved running surface through the use of high quality surfacing materials."
Traffic control will be in operation during the normal working day however to facilitate resurfacing works a road closure will be required.
The project is expected to be completed by 28 February, subject to weather conditions.
(JP)
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19 September 2018
Up To 100 Roads Closed As Storm Ali Hits NI
A growing number of roads across Northern Ireland are closed due to adverse weather conditions as a result of Storm Ali.
Up To 100 Roads Closed As Storm Ali Hits NI
A growing number of roads across Northern Ireland are closed due to adverse weather conditions as a result of Storm Ali.
02 March 2018
Schools Closures Across NI
The Department of Education have published a list of all schools across that have confirmed they will be closed today, Friday 2nd March, 2018 due to the adverse weather conditions.
Schools Closures Across NI
The Department of Education have published a list of all schools across that have confirmed they will be closed today, Friday 2nd March, 2018 due to the adverse weather conditions.
20 September 2018
Number Of Roads Remain Closed Following Storm Ali
A number of roads remain closed across Northern Ireland following the damage caused by Storm Ali. The following roads are still closed, however the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) is working to clear the obstructions along with its multiagency partners.
Number Of Roads Remain Closed Following Storm Ali
A number of roads remain closed across Northern Ireland following the damage caused by Storm Ali. The following roads are still closed, however the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) is working to clear the obstructions along with its multiagency partners.
05 January 2006
Road death figures are lowest in 50 years
Figures released today by the Department of the Environment have revealed that road deaths in Northern Ireland last year were at the lowest level in 50 years. The total number of road deaths in 2005 totalled 136, the lowest number since 1952 when 133 people lost their lives at at time when there was one eighth of the number of vehicles on the road.
Road death figures are lowest in 50 years
Figures released today by the Department of the Environment have revealed that road deaths in Northern Ireland last year were at the lowest level in 50 years. The total number of road deaths in 2005 totalled 136, the lowest number since 1952 when 133 people lost their lives at at time when there was one eighth of the number of vehicles on the road.
18 April 2012
Parking Fines To Increase By 50%
The penalty for illegal street parking in Northern Ireland is set to increase by as much as 50%. It was revealed today that the maximum fine would increase from the current levy of £60 to £90. NI Road's Minister Danny Kennedy said that this move follows a significant increase in the amount of illegal 'on street' parking in the last year.
Parking Fines To Increase By 50%
The penalty for illegal street parking in Northern Ireland is set to increase by as much as 50%. It was revealed today that the maximum fine would increase from the current levy of £60 to £90. NI Road's Minister Danny Kennedy said that this move follows a significant increase in the amount of illegal 'on street' parking in the last year.
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:Still a few wintry showers in the north and down North Channel coasts, otherwise dry with some clear intervals and perhaps the odd fog patch in the south. Minimum temperature -5 °C.
