Included below are some of the general issues affecting the East Londonderry area. For more detailed issues click on the links on the left-hand side of the page.

Inward Investment

The East Londonderry area has seen a steady decline in large employers over many years and this is a worrying trend that must be addressed at the highest level.

Limavady has particularly suffered from the decline of the textile industry while both Limavady and Coleraine have not seen major industrial investment for some time. These are serious issues which require aggressive attack. I feel passionately that so much more can be done to attract potential investors to our area.

The North Coast and Roe Valley areas are exceptional with much to offer potential investors in terms of a skilled workforce and attractive incentives to establish their businesses. The region’s infrastructure is sound and has undergone improvements in recent years.

However, the retail sector remains fairly buoyant in both regions although I am very conscious of the need to develop it if growth is to be sustained.

 

Opposition to Offshore Windfarm

I am opposed to plans by the B9 Energy Group to locate a windfarm on the Tunes Plateau off the stunningly beautiful Causeway Coast.

I am a supporter of the concept of renewable energy but Northern Ireland and particularly the North Coast is an area of outstanding natural beauty. This proposal would be detrimental to the tourism industry notwithstanding its visual impact.

 

Planning Issues

The growth of second homes and apartments along the North Coast is a contentious issue. The whole planning process in relation to seaside towns and villages needs to be much more sensitivly handled to avoid further proliferation of dwellings such as we have witnessed over the past decade.

 

Londonderry - Belfast Railway Line

I maintain that the railway system in Northern Ireland can offer an effective, efficient and reliable public transport system that brings advantages to both users and non-users alike.

I have fought for the retention of the Belfast to Londonderry line which in my opinion is a vital service linking Northern Ireland’s two main cities. It is a vital link for East Londonderry and cannot be allowed to close.

“The closure of railway lines has had an adverse social and economic impact on numerous areas of Northern Ireland over many years. Closure of any line would result in a shift from public transport to private car. This would be in direct conflict with the transport policy approved by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

“In general, rail users should be able to enjoy a convenient and quick mode of transport that is comfortable and includes on-board catering and WC facilities. Non-users would benefit from a less congested road system, reduced pollution and fewer road traffic accidents.

“I am fully aware of the competing demands for public expenditure. However, I contend that investment in the railway service will pay long-term dividends. Some of the track may not need upgraded or to the extent suggested and some of the safety measures costed may prove unnecessary for the reason outlined above.