Assembly Committee gets update on potential of Maze Long Kesh site

Members of an Assembly Committee have been updated on the potential economic benefits of the Maze Long Kesh site - at a meeting with the development corporation responsible for its management.

The Committee for the Executive Office was briefed by the Maze Long Kesh Development Corporation's senior leadership team in their Lisburn offices.

MLAs heard from the Corporation's interim chief executive, Neil McIvor and other board members on their long-term vision for the site and more immediate plans to initiate regeneration projects.

Paula Bradshaw MLA, Chairperson of the Committee for the Executive Office said the meeting had been useful in bringing Members up to speed and giving them the opportunity to ask further questions around strategy and timescales for the site.

She said: "The Maze Long Kesh Development Corporation is an arm's length body which is sponsored by The Executive Office (TEO).

"As TEO's scrutiny committee, it is important we have these conversations to probe and challenge plans for the Maze Long Kesh site. The Committee has been expressing its concern and frustration for a number of years on the limited progress that has been made and we had particular questions around the site's infrastructure - including access to transport links and the ongoing restricted remit of the Maze Long Kesh Development Corporation, while acknowledging the differing political perspectives surrounding the issue.

"It was a valuable and productive meeting and we look forward to receiving regular briefings from the corporation in the months ahead."

Ends

For further information, please contact Felicity Templeton, communications office felicity.templeton@niassembly.gov.uk or 07977 635930

Notes to editors

For further information on the Maze Long Kesh Development Corporation see: About Us - Maze Long Kesh Regeneration