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The potential of Newry Ship Canal was very much to the fore at Stormont yesterday 25 February when MLA Justin McNulty spoke on the Department for Infrastructure's proposal to construct a fixed bridge across Newry canal and said that it would be a 'spectacular own goal'.
The MLA emphasised the need to ensure that the bridge over the canal was an opening bridge, and pointed out that the current Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins had concurred with that the past when she said "It is of the utmost importance that the lifting bridge design is prioritised"
The Department for Infrastructure are currently conducting a consultation on the Southern Relief Road of which the proposed fixed bridge across Newry Ship Canal is part, with submissions needing to be in for 5pm 4 March. You can find out how to make a submission at www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk
Mr McNulty said that Newry people cannot countenance the prospect of a fixed bridge that permanently severs and seals Newry canal from Carlingford Lough and the Irish Sea.
"I am strongly of the opinion that proceeding with a fixed bridge across Newry Canal would be a spectacular own goal. Such a decision would not only undermine Newry's proud maritime history but significantly complicate the efforts that are currently under way to regenerate Newry canal."
Liz Kimmins MLA when speaking of the need for a lifting bridge before she became Infrastructure Minister said "Our waterways need to be open, especially when we see the progress and potential of Newry city park and the Albert Basin. This will be a major boost for the tourism economy in the Newry and Mourne region."
Mr McNulty said "I fully agree with her that strategically harnessing the potential of waterways as a tourism asset and as economic drivers has had a powerfully positive impact for businesses and communities in Ireland, Britain and in mainland Europe. The revitalisation of the Shannon waterways led to the creation of construction and environmental management jobs during the restoration. It created permanent jobs in boating, hospitality and tourism and has led to significant small business growth and local economic enhancement, adding an estimated €14 million annually to the Irish economy."
He also spoke of the Grand Union canal in Britain that is estimated to have brought £3·5 billion of associated investment with it, the Canal du Midi in France which generates an estimated €7·5 million annually.
Mr McNulty concluded "A major concern about the discussion around the fixed bridge over Newry canal is that the decision appears to be a fait accompli. Despite having committed a grand total of zero pounds to the project, the Department for Infrastructure is citing financial pressures as a means to justify a fixed bridge."
