BY MICHELE CANNING SMITH

THE FUTURE of what is arguably the focal point of the town's Abercorn Square, the Pagoda, is under the spotlight.

Since the Tourist Information Office moved into its new home at the £3.5 million Alley Theatre in the town centre, the Pagoda has now become defunct and lies empty.

The Council's Culture Arts and Leisure Committee is now endeavouring to agree to the future of the site.

A land registry search has been undertaken and despite the area not being registered, Roads Service has confirmed control over this area, as it had previously been a public road.

Whilst the site is owned by Roads Service, Strabane Council could lay claim through use and occupation, having housed the TIO for over 12 years.

It has been mooted that interest has been expressed by Roads Service to use the site for the realignment of the road.

REMOVAL

Chairman of Culture, Arts and Leisure, Ivan Barr said he would, in principle, object to the removal of the pagoda but stresses that he could be persuaded if an alternative use would prove of substantial benefit to local people.

"Personally, I and some other councillors would like to see all options considered before a decision is made, and that would include its change of use to a retail kiosk.

"Considering the amount of money that was spent on the pagoda when it replaced the old pagoda as a focal point, then I feel that any decision to remove it should not be taken lightly.

"If the pagoda is removed then will the sculpture and seat also be removed?

"As it stands at the minute I would like to see the pagoda remain in situ but my mind could be changed."

Councillor Barr said one other option to be considered is replacing the pagoda with another structure for aesthetic value for the commercial centre of the town.

A meeting will be held in the near future to look at realistic proposals for the site.