Book celebrates first decade of Bridge Street restoration

‘Bridge Street - A Decade of Renaissance’ was produced by Lisburn City Centre Management, and shows before and after images of 15 properties that have been restored with the support of Bridge Street Townscape Heritage Initiative.

It charts the progress from a position a decade ago when the commercial vacancy rate in Bridge Street was running at 70% and the residential community that added social and economic vibrancy in the past had totally deserted the street.

Currently there are 20 modern private rented apartments that have reintroduced a new residential community, with planning approval in place for a further 20. A total of 15 commercial premises have been restored and many important heritage features retained.

Speaking at the launch in the Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum Councillor Allan Ewart, Chairman of Lisburn City Centre Management and Lisburn Historic Quarter Partnership commented; “This book illustrates how the restoration of our architectural heritage is delivering a brighter future for Bridge Street and our wider city. It celebrates the work of Bridge Street Townscape Heritage Initiative in bringing about a renaissance over the past decade, something of which all who have been involved should be proud.”

Guest speaker Rita Harkin, a member of the Heritage Lottery Fund Northern Ireland Committee, congratulated Lisburn City Centre Management and thanked the other supporting funders that have contributed to the scheme including Lisburn City Council, Planning Service through their Conservation Area Grant scheme and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive through the Town Centre Living Initiative Grant.

Councillor Jenny Palmer, Chairman of the Economic Development Committee said: “I would like to thank the unsung individuals who have invested their own money in Bridge Street, as well as those who have chosen to work and live in its wonderfully restored buildings.

“Together they are bringing a fresh sense of community spirit and economic vitality to the revival of the historic heart of Lisburn City Centre. Even in these very difficult times it is encouraging to learn that there are property owners still willing to invest in the street and Lisburn City Council looks forward to supporting the continuing efforts of Bridge Street Townscape Heritage Initiative Partnership.”

Copies of the Book, priced at £5, are available to purchase from Lisburn City Centre Management, Rawdon House, 45/47 Market Square. Telephone 028 92660625; email [email protected] web www.lisburnccm.co.uk