Other News In Brief

Man Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

A man has been convicted for claiming over £11,000 in benefits he was not entitled to at Downpatrick Magistrates' Court.

Dean Carlin claimed Jobseekers Allowance and Housing Benefit totalling £11,216 while failing to declare employment. He was given 80 hours community service. The fraud was uncovered following an investigation by the Department for Communities.

He is also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Department.

Construction Work Continues On New Boulevard In Belfast

Construction work is continuing on a new boulevard in Belfast.

The road will lead from the Boucher Road to the newly refurbished Olympia Leisure Centre and is part of the £21.75million being invested in the project.

Belfast City Council is also urging the public to suggest a new name for the boulevard which is due to open at the end of May.

Councillor Matt Garrett, Chair of Belfast City Council's Strategic Policy and Resources Committee, said: "This new road is being constructed as part of the £21.75m investment at Olympia – a project which sits within our £105m Leisure Transformation Programme being delivered across the city.

"Olympia Leisure Centre reopened to the public last January and is a state-of-the-art facility. These additional outdoor facilities will further enhance that offering, and we’re very much looking forward to the official unveiling in May."

Members of the public can share their suggestions between now and Sunday 18 March by emailing nametheroad@belfastcity.gov.uk or by picking up a form at one of following venues:

• Olympia Leisure Centre

• Morton Community Centre

• Greater Village Regeneration Trust

• Windsor Women's Centre.

Call For Council To Reconsider Parking Charges Decision

Alliance Party activists have called on Causeway Coast and Glens Council to re-think its decision to introduce seasonal parking charges in some tourist spots.

The move will see charges introduced across the Council area, including Ballintoy Harbour, Ballycastle Marina and part of Portballintrae Beach Road.

Councillor Barney Fitzpatrick said: "I opposed this process every step of the way, believing it will negatively impact the summer season trade that our area is very dependent on. We should be encouraging tourism into our area, not putting up obstacles to keep people away."

(CD)