McCausland makes Newry regeneration a reality

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has welcomed the start of major regeneration works to Newry City Centre.
~ Wednesday, 25 January 2012

The £1.8million environmental improvement works will greatly enhance the city centre by upgrading the Hill Street and Monaghan Street areas. Works, due to start on 23 January, will include:

• upgrading of footpaths and road surfaces;
• increased and improved lighting provision;
• under-grounding of overhead services; and
• additional street furniture and foliage throughout the town.

Nelson McCausland said: “The commencement of this scheme is great news for Newry. This major investment is designed to target areas that were perceived as uninteresting and unattractive and will help inject a vibrancy back into the heart of the city centre, making it a better place to live, work and visit.

“In the current economic climate the scheme will also provide much needed employment for the local construction industry. This work will give Hill Street and Monaghan Street a welcome boost and reinvigorate the historical heart of the city, improving trading conditions and encouraging private sector investment.”

Mayor of Newry and Mourne District Council Councillor Charlie Casey said: " I welcome the start of this long overdue scheme and the investment and positive impact this will have on two of the City's main streets.”

Notes to editors:

1. The overall cost of the scheme is £1,888,000 of which the Department for Social Development is providing over £1.7million toward the scheme, with Newry and Mourne District Council securing the remainder.
2. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078 or 07970 976894. Out of office hours please contact Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.