Written question asked by Lady Hermon (Ulster Unionist Party) on Monday, 13 February 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 15 February 2006. It was answered by Lord Hanson of Flint (Labour) on Wednesday, 7 June 2006 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Social Security Agency Office (Bangor)

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he plans (a) to replace and (b) to refurbish the Social Security Agency office on Hamilton Road in Bangor; what the timescale for any such rebuilding or refurbishment is; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: The Bangor Social Security Office is included in the rollout of jobs and benefits offices as part of the welfare reform agenda. The Social Security Agency and Department for Employment and Learning are currently considering a number of proposals for provision of the new office. These include both the refurbishment of the existing office or a number of new build schemes. A decision is unlikely before May 2006.A target date for completion will be agreed once contracts have been awarded.

Secondary information