Maze stadium gets the boot
PLANS for a £240m multi-sport stadium on the site of the Maze prison have been axed after years of wrangling.
Sports Minister Gregory Campbell has finally dumped controversial proposals for the site which had driven a wedge between Republicans and Unionists.
Controversy
The plan for a 38,000 seater arena for rugby, football and gaelic games at the Maze site on the outskirts of Lisburn contributed to the Stromnt deadlock last year.
In a paper to executive colleagues, Mr Campbell said the plan did not enjoy sufficient political consensus.
He added a net loss to the economy of between 156m and 193m did not compensate for the non-monetary benefits which may flow from a shared stadium.
Terrorism
Controversial plans for a Conflict Resolution Centre on the infamous H-blocks where the 1981 Hunger Strikes happened proved a major sticking point in the plan as Unionists feared it would become a shrine to terrorists.
Plans
There are still plans to help the three sports develop in Northern Ireland.
This could involve upgrades of existing grounds.
Officials will now work with Linfield Football Club and the IFA to carry out a limited remedial programme at Windsor Park so international football can be played there until a permanent solution is agreed.
Mr Campbell also wants to review the work being undertaken by Belfast City Council which says it wants to build its own stadium in the city.
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Monday 28 May 2012
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