Council discuss Southern Relief Road with Deputy First Minister

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: Columba O'Hare; Category: News; Published: 02 March 2016

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

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A delegation of Councillors and Senior Officials from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council met with the deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness at the Canal Court Hotel, Newry last week to discuss the Southern Relief Road and the Narrow Water Bridge project.

Chairperson, Councillor Michael Ruane led the cross-Party delegation who set out for the deputy First Minster the importance of both projects in the wider strategic context. It was highlighted to the deputy First Minster that both projects would have a positive impact on economic development and tourism for the island of Ireland.

The deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness pictured with the delegation of Councillors and Senior Officials from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council at the Canal Court Hotel, Newry to discuss the Narrow Water Bridge project and the Southern Relief Road. Also included are Pamela Arthurs, Chief Executive of East Border Region (front right) and Tom Reid (Senior Official from DRD - sitting on left of deputy First Minister) and Donal Moran (Senior Official from OFMDFM - sitting on right of deputy First Minister)

Commenting on the significance of the projects, Councillor Ruane added, “Narrow Water Bridge will provide an essential connection between the Cooley Peninsula and the South Down area. This will develop the tourism potential in the area ensuring an effective transport route for tourists from South to North and would be an iconic structure in the Mournes area.”

“The Southern Relief Road is essential for the future development of Warrenpoint Port for import and export business. In addition to the economic benefits to be derived through an effective transport route this project would also relieve the environmental issue which exists due to traffic congestion in Newry City.”

The deputy First Minister, Martin McGuiness said: “I recognise the strategic and local benefits of both projects. The Southern Relief Road is included in the Department for Regional Development’s Forward Work Planning schedule and the development of the Narrow Water Bridge is included in the Fresh Start Agreement.

“The Executive and the Irish Government have agreed to undertake a review of the Narrow Water Bridge project with a view to identifying options for its future development. Senior officials will engage with the Council and key stakeholders when developing the report which will be considered by the North South Ministerial Council in June 2016.”

The Council Chairperson, Councillor Mickey Ruane thanked the deputy First Minister for the opportunity to discuss the projects and for visiting the Newry, Mourne and Down area.