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The shell of the former shopping centre, the Island Arcade in Sugar Island in Newry has laid derelict for over a generation. It would seem that at long last though its days are numbered, with ambitious plans by Downey Developments for the area.
Planning permission is being sought for refurbishment and alterations to the rear of 8-18 Sugar Island which would see the provision of a drive-thru restaurant with widening of the existent entrance at the side of Sean Hollywood Arts Centre as well as new office space. The work would be facilitated by work planned by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to build a new theatre as well as public realm work with a boardwalk cycle/ walking path along the canal from Sugar Island. It would see an area currently derelict brought back into use once again.
The proposal states it is for
- Proposed refurbishment, alterations and rear façade works to nos. 8-18 Sugar Island along with provision of a new lift and stair core to provide 1st and 2nd floor access to no. 16 & 18 Sugar Island.
- Provision of new office space at 1st and 2nd floor within nos. 16-18 Sugar Island.
- Façade and alteration works to no. 8 Sugar Island to provide a carriage arch.
- Demolition of existing outbuildings and perimeter walls to the rear of nos. 8-18 Sugar Island.
- The upgrade and widening of existing entrance from Bank Parade (which is to be facilitated via demolition of the Sean Holywood Arts Centre as proposed by Newry, Mourne & Down District Council under application LA07/2023/2193/F).
- The provision of a drive-thru restaurant with associated site works to include for all hard and soft landscaping works. Provision of a bin storage area
The Vision
A design and access statement spells out the vision for the proposal:
"A unique opportunity to revitalise and re-energise the site, city centre and the wider Sugar Island area. The effect of re-developing the site and incorporating masterplanning spaces will be transformational.
"The overarching rationale is to create a commercial synergy in Sugar Island which will ensure that the development can enhance Newry City with both employment and commercial activity."
It's just one of several large ongoing projects in the Sugar Island/ Merchants Quay/ Canal Street area, an area that for a long time has suffered from dereliction and lack of a 'vibe'after 5pm. Planning permission is also being sought for 1-7 Sugar Island for 20 flats and 3 retail units on the current Friar Tucks site. Building work is also well underway for 35 apartments on the corner of Merchants Quay and Canal Street. Combined with the new theatre it certainly is a very interesting time for the Sugar Island area.
