Other News In Brief

Anger As Pipe Bomb Discovered In North Belfast

An SDLP councillor has condemned the actions of "thugs" who planted a pipe bomb in north Belfast yesterday, Wednesday 19 June.

A security operation was sparked and homes in the Oldpark area evacuated after the viable device was discovered leaving many residents "distressed and angry", Councillor Paul McCusker said.

"Those responsible have nothing to offer this community," he commented. "We're trying to build a better North Belfast and acts like this only make that harder. They have to be faced down. 

"I would appeal to anyone with information to bring it forward.

"I want to record my sincere thanks to Sacred Heart Parish Centre in Glenview Street which opened its doors to people for rest after they were evacuated. They performed a valuable community service again today."

Belsonic: Traffic Disruption Expected In South Belfast

Road users are being advised to expect some traffic disruption this evening, Thursday 20 June, as rapper Stormzy takes to the Belsonic stage at Belfast's Ormeau Park.

Annadale embankment will be closed to through traffic from the Ormeau Road junction to Ravenhill Road junction from 4pm until midnight. Coaches and buses transporting people to the concert will be facilitated by approaching from the Ormeau Road junction.

The PSNI has warned drivers to plan for delays by allowing additional time for journeys. Concert goers are encouraged to use pubic transport and those organising a private car or taxi are advised to plan collection points for some distance away from the venue.

The PSNI also highlighted that the event is for over 16s and will require ID.

Bangor Regeneration Plans Enter Public Consultation

Plans to regenerate Bangor with new jobs, shops, offices and homes have entered a public consultation period.

The £50 million development from joint venture Bangor Marine Ltd will focus on transforming the historic Queen's Parade area.

Karl Group and Farrans are collaborating in the venture, which includes plans to better connect Queen's Parade with the seafront by redeveloping the Marine Gardens car park into an attractive public realm area consisting of external events space, cafes, sheltered promenade & kiosks, beach, seafront lawns, a children's play area & water feature.

Consultation began on 18 June ahead of the submission of the full planning application later this year.

Further pre-application community consultation events are scheduled on 01-02 August.

Jennifer Johnston from Farrans said: "We are delighted to be working with Karl Group to bring forward this highly exciting project which is set to completely transform, regenerate and restore the vibrancy of Bangor's waterfront.

"During this consultation process we welcome feedback from the public on our plans and look forward to engaging with the people who live, work and visit Bangor.

"This project offers an excellent mix of public space, retail, office, leisure and living space which will attract locals and tourists to the area and bring further investment into Ards and North Down area."



(JG/CM)