South Down MLA Colin McGrath (SDLP) has welcomed progress in creating a pedestrian linkage between the Ballydugan retail park and the Market Street car park in Downpatrick which could provide ease of access between our town centre and the retail park
Commenting, the South Down MLA said: ‘’I have always been concerned that the lack of connectivity between the retail park and our town centre has had a detrimental impact on footfall for town centre retailers.
“Our traders have had to weather some very difficult economic times and coupled with the development of the Ballydugan Retail Park which may inadvertently divert footfall away from the town centre has resulted in a doubly devastating impact on them.
“The ideal economic climate for local traders is one that allows the shopper to access both the main street and the Retail Park. Currently the layout of the town centre and park means that there is up to half a mile door to door between the business and this is not attractive to the shopper.
“I have secured commitment from Department of Finance and Local Council officials that this matter will be thoroughly investigated with an aim to deliver the connectivity that is requited.
“My aim is to do all that I can to breathe new life into the town centre and maximise the benefits for local businesses and whilst this is work in progress I hope that it can be delivered in the short term to assist local businesses.”
