TOWN REGENERATION FUND SUCCESS FOR STRANRAER

5.27.00pm GMT Fri 13th Nov 2009

Jim Hume, Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland, has welcomed the news that Stranraer has been successful in its bid for town centre regeneration money, but has warned that a more long term investment strategy will need to be put in place if the town is to realise its economic ambitions.

The town won £790,000 in the second round of allocations.

Jim Hume said:

"Whilst this money will undoubtedly help the town regeneration efforts, Stranraer was effectively ignored during the first round of the town regeneration fund which was extremely disappointing, especially in terms of the Waterfront Development.

"Stranraer could greatly benefit from an investment programme aimed at creating opportunities for the long term. Part of that would include designating the Waterfront Development a national priority, and restoring the original funding that had been earmarked for the project.

"Congratulations in the meantime have to go to those involved in preparing the high quality bids."