Paying her first visit to the town, Margaret Ritchie brought details of her department’s input to two major urban regeneration projects.

DSD is to appoint consultants to develop Carrickfergus Development Company’s proposed ‘masterplan’ for the economic revival of the town centre.

Ms Ritchie told the TIMES that in drawing up development plans “it is important to get the views of local government and the community so that they help shape their town”.

The Minister pointed to the transformation of the former commercial harbour site into a residential and entertainment complex as evidence that regeneration plans can bring new life to a run-down area.

She said: “The Maritime area is both satisfying and exciting. What was once underused, derelict land has been transformed into a vibrant, lively area.

“Regeneration is about bringing areas to life, using space for the improvement of people’s lives. I hope we will be able to agree a vision which will drive the masterplan, focusing on the most appropriate way to revitalise the town centre.”

Ms Ritchie acknowledged the need to bridge the divide between the entertainment and tourist attractions on the seaward side of Marine Highway and the historic town centre opposite is key to overcoming the strong challenges which face the Borough’s retailers due to the proximity of both the Abbey Centre and Belfast.

Like her home town of Downpatrick, the Minister said Carrick must exploit both its historic attractions and picturesque setting to attract visitors, then work out how to entice them to the town’s shopping area.

She added: “The plan will identify the strengths, opportunities and weaknesses, giving us a blueprint with which to move forward.

In addition to its work on the masterplan, DSD is to contribute £300,000 to the next phase of the seafront facelift, extending the caithness-paved promenade to the opposite side of the Castle, next to the harbour car park.