Ms Guy said: “The future development of the MLK site has been discussed for years. In March, Sorcha Eastwood brought forward a debate in the NI Assembly and the First and deputy First Minister assured us they were determined to make progress. However, recent questions reveal little has been done to make progress.

“Since 2013, given the lack of Ministerial agreement on the future of the site, the activities of the Development Corporation, originally tasked with overseeing plans, have been heavily restricted. They are operating with their arms tied behind their backs. 

“Added to this, the Executive Office has confirmed to me that the 23/24 business plan for the Development Corporation hasn’t been finalised or signed off.

“The site can be the source of huge excitement and economic benefit but also as an important symbol for reconciliation. I don’t dismiss the sensitivities associated with it, but it seems we are in a political paralysis that threatens to render this site another symbol of our dysfunction and division. The time for words and rehearsing concerns has passed, we now need to see published plans, timelines and budgets. 

“Alliance representatives will continue to demand progress and we will commit to engaging with all interested parties to see MLK fulfil its potential.” 

David Honeyford MLA added: “The economic and social potential of MLK can be delivered while acknowledging the historical nature of the site and there is a clear role for National Museums NI to do that sensitively, but we need the buy-in from the First and deputy First Ministers.

"Unrealised potential means that everybody misses out and everybody loses. However, I remain hopeful that the potential can finally be realised and that the community around the site, and the wider Lagan Valley community, can play a part in that.”