Future of the District - Council Publish Draft Local Development Plan

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: Columba O'Hare; Category: News; Published: 01 July 2025

Pictured at the official launch of the Council’s Local Development Plan 2035 – draft Plan Strategy at the Burrendale Hotel, setting out a bold new vision for the future development of the district are from left: Conor Mallon, NMDDC Director Economy, Regeneration and Tourism (NMDDC), Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, Marie Ward, Chief Executive Officer, Planning Committee Chairperson, Councillor Mickey Larkin and Jonathan McGilly, Assistant Director, Economy Regeneration and Tourism (NMDDC).

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has launched its draft Local Development Plan 2035 setting out their vision for the future development of the district. As part of the process a consultation is currently being held to give the public a chance to give their thoughts on the plan.

Chris Kent 30 October and Blondie Tribute 28 December @ Canal Court Hotel

Since taking on planning powers in April 2015, the Council has worked within the policy framework inherited from the former Department of the Environment (DOE) and the Department for Infrastructure (DfI). Now, with the publication of its own draft Plan Strategy, the Council is putting forward a tailored framework that reflects the unique needs, opportunities and ambitions of the district.

The strategy outlines how the district should grow and develop over the next decade, addressing housing, employment, infrastructure and environmental priorities. A 12-week public consultation is now open and the Council is calling on residents, businesses and community groups to help shape the future by submitting their views before 5pm on Monday 22 September.

Speaking at the launch, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “This is a major milestone for the Council. The draft Plan Strategy sets out our growth agenda and planning policies that align with both our Community Plan and Corporate Plan.

“It provides a long-term spatial vision that supports economic development, helps build sustainable communities and protects our rich historic and natural heritage. We want to make sure that the right development happens in the right places – creating places where people want to live, work, visit and invest in.”

The Council is encouraging everyone with an interest in the future of Newry, Mourne and Down to review the South Down MLA Andrew McMurray and Rowallane Councillor David Lee-Surginor have welcomed the publication of the draft Strategy.

Commenting after the Plan's launch, Cllr Lee-Surginor stated: "As an Alliance councillor representing the diverse communities of Rowallane — from our rural villages to growing urban towns — I’m cautiously optimistic about the direction of the Local Development Plan 2035. It’s encouraging to see commitments to sustainable development.

"However, it’s vital that we see clear, targeted measures for affordable housing, strengthened support for active and public transport, and investment in town centre revitalisation — all of which are essential for places like Ballynahinch for instance. For growing villages such as Crossgar, we need to ensure that future development is well-planned, with the infrastructure and services to match. Improvements in rural infrastructure — especially transport and digital connectivity — are key to ensuring balanced growth that works for all residents. I’ll continue to push for an inclusive and transparent implementation process that genuinely reflects local needs and voices."

Andrew McMurray MLA, Alliance spokesperson for Infrastructure and South Down MLA, added: “I welcome this important document, which will play an important role in shaping the development of the District over the next decade. Poor planning system performance is an ongoing shared challenge for the Department for Infrastructure and Councils across Northern Ireland. Local Development Plans have a vital role to play in improving performance in this area, providing clarity and helping to create well-connected, resilient, and attractive places for people to live, work, and invest. It is important that the final plan meet the needs of our local community and I would encourage residents, businesses and community groups to read the draft plan and respond to the Council’s public consultation.”

View The draft Strategy at Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Local Development Plan 2035 - Draft Plan Strategy

View a Summary of the Strategy at Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Local Development Plan - Draft - Summary

Hard copies can also be viewed in person, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm at the Council’s Civic Centres in Newry and Downpatrick.

Details on how to respond to the consultation and upcoming public engagement exhibitions are also available at www.newrymournedown.org

The consultation period will be carried out over a twelve-week period, commencing on Friday 27 June 2025 and closing at 5pm on Monday 22 September 2025. Please note that representations received after the closing date will not be considered.

Council are holding drop in sessions on the plan, in Newry on Tuesday 12 August at Newry Museum from 1.30pm to 3.30pm and Newry Leisure Centre from 6pm to 8pm.