Prison site agreement nears

One of the old H-blocks may be preserved

A review panel is close to reaching agreement on recommendations for a £1bn development of the old Maze prison site.

The proposals are believed to include a 30,000-seat sports stadium, the retention of one of the H-blocks and a "conflict transformation centre".

The panel's report on the 360-acre site is to be handed to Northern Ireland Office Minister Ian Pearson next week.

Mr Pearson is expected to give his verdict before Christmas on the plans being submitted by the panel, which includes members of Northern Ireland's four main political parties.

It is not definite that the sports stadium will be built on the County Antrim site as there are 11 competing locations - if the government gives the project the go-ahead.

The proposals include:

• a new sports stadium featuring a 30,000-seater arena and an international exhibition centre for showjumping and rock concerts
• a 40-acre sports zone with a stadium to be used for GAA, soccer and rugby
• the retention of one of the H-blocks
• an international conflict transformation centre
• an office, hotel and leisure village
• an industrial estate to attract significant inward investment
• artwork and structures throughout the site.