MLA salutes 'people power' for business upturn

People power has helped turn a once rundown area of Coleraine into a thriving part of town, Ulster Unionist assembly member David McClarty said today.

The East Londonderry MLA was speaking at the launch of the latest development for the Killowen area, which envisages a number of business units and a community centre.

Mr McClarty, chairman of the West Bann Development Group, saluted local people who, he said, were a shining example of how civic pride, coupled with hard work and determination, can make a world of difference to the environment they live and work in.

He added: “In less than four years since the development group was established it has made huge strides in kick-starting the regeneration of the area. But this could not have been achieved without the backing of numerous local people and the local business community.

“The night-time economy is continuing to blossom and is the envy of the rest of the town with a number of restaurants and food outlets ensuring the area has a special buzz. This should be the template for the town centre across the River Bann.”

Mr McClarty encouraged anyone from the area who was considering establishing a small business to come forward and make use of the opportunity being presented by a number of small business units off Killowen Street.

He said these initiatives were just another step along the way of breathing new life into Killowen but appealed for local people to do all they can to help combat the continuing problems of unsocial behaviour.

The West Bann Development Group has received charitable status and is soon to change its name to West Bann Trust.

Projects in the area have been funded by the International Fund for Ireland, Coleraine Borough Council Community Relations Unit, the National Lottery Community Fund and various private sources.

(MB)