A £1 million plan to develop a park and ride facility on the former Lidl site at Bradley Way in Strabane has been announced by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins. The scheme, part of a £3.25 million Local Growth Fund package, will provide between 150 and 170 parking spaces next to Strabane Bus Station.

The project has been welcomed by local business and political figures. Michael Kelly, vice-chair of Love Strabane and proprietor of MK's Bar, said the investment would bring benefits to town centre businesses by improving access and encouraging more people to visit, shop, and spend time in the town. He added that enhanced pedestrian links would make it more convenient for workers, shoppers, and visitors.

Sinn Féin MLA Paul Boggs said the investment would complement a £10.4 million footbridge linking the bus station to the town centre under the City Deal. He described it as positive for sustainable transport and connecting Strabane to the wider region.

SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan said he was pleased the Department for Infrastructure had committed up to £1 million to buy the site and make it fit for purpose. He noted the scheme would encourage bus use and help stop anti-social behaviour at the location.

However, some members of the public have questioned the priority. Shirley Ann McDonald said she would have preferred the money to be spent on a mental health facility. She argued that there is already a car park at the site and that the cost seems high for basic works. She added that a park and ride would only encourage people to leave the town, and that Strabane needs investment to keep people there.

Brian McNamee asked whether the public was consulted on the decision and said the department appeared out of touch with what the town needs. Frances Vaccaro said Strabane needs investment to encourage businesses and proper planning.

The Department for Infrastructure was asked when it expects to acquire the site and whether it would consider redirecting funding, but no response had been received at the time of writing.