Bangor: Delays to Queen's Parade project 'holding back city's potential'

Bangor: Delays to Queen's Parade project 'holding back city's potential'

Concerns have been raised by the locals in Bangor over the delays in the multi-million pound seafront redevelopment project, stating that it is hindering the potential growth of the city. The plans to revamp the Queen’s Parade area in County Down have been talked about for several years, but it wasn’t until 2019 that the initiative gained traction with the appointment of Bangor Marine by the Department for Communities (DfC) and Ards and North Down District Council to oversee the project. However, six years on, construction work has yet to commence on the first phase of the project, leaving the area mostly abandoned. There are indications that construction company Farrans may consider withdrawing from the project entirely.

The redevelopment of the Queen’s Parade area in Bangor has long been a topic of discussion, with promises of transformation and revitalization. Ivan Carruthers, a Bangor resident, expressed his disappointment in the stalled progress, noting that the area has been in a state of neglect for a considerable period. He mentioned that the delay in the redevelopment of Queen’s Parade has made many residents skeptical about the actualization of the project, despite reassurances about available funding and readiness to proceed. Carruthers emphasized the potential of Bangor, likening it to Brighton in relation to London, highlighting the beautiful surroundings and attractions the city has to offer.

The development site, which comprises lands at Queen’s Parade and the existing Marine Gardens’ car park, is slated to feature a 5.25-acre public space in its initial phase, including amenities such as a play park, pavilions, food kiosks, and an events area. The comprehensive project envisions the construction of a new hotel, a mix of residential properties, office spaces, retail and dining establishments, as well as a cinema. With outstanding legal issues causing setbacks to the construction work on the Marine Gardens segment of the Queen’s Parade redevelopment, the project faces further delays, prolonging the frustration felt by the community over the prolonged abandonment of the area.

Commenting on the situation, Steve Geddis, a frequent visitor to Bangor, described the current state of Queen’s Parade as a disgrace, emphasizing the urgent need for its transformation. He expressed confidence that the redevelopment would attract more visitors to the area, giving a much-needed boost to Bangor. Two childhood friends, Margaret Duffy and Rita Quinn, who reminisced about their fond memories of Bangor, shared their disappointment over the eyesore that the Queen’s Parade area has become. They highlighted the city’s potential as a hub for people from all walks of life, accessible by various means of transportation, and expressed hope for its eventual rejuvenation

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