Write a commentProposed plans for the first large scale development at Merchants Quay, Newry in many years were on view to the public at an event in the former William Goss and Sons car showroom last week.
It's one of several proposed schemes for the area that have the potential to kickstart other rejuvenation projects in Newry city at a time when lack of housing and a surplus of vacant sites are to the fore. In March 2019 the Housing Executive waiting list included 2,516 applicants in "housing stress"
Visitors got the chance to look at some of the initial designs and comment on the plans for the site that includes the former showroom and yard as well as two other buildings on Merchants Quay.
The 0.41 hectare development has been named 'Pearce's Gate' after Architect and Surveyor General, Sir Edward Lovell Pearce who was involved with the initial design of Newry Canal in the 1730's along with Richard Cassel.
The Proposal
The development involves residential, retail and office space fronting both Merchants Quay and Cornmarket.
On-site parking as well as a central green core form an integral part of the development. One corner aspect proposal sees a structure of up to six stories in front of Ballybot House, which could include ground floor retail and upper floor residential. A second corner build is planned to include a glass frontage looking over Newry Canal.
Residential development fronting Cornmarket would be up to five stories with top floors stepped back from the street.
The proposal would include the demolition of the showroom listed building at 47 Merchant's Quay will be retained and renewed as possible office space.
Other Projects
This is just one of several current proposed projects in the Merchants Quay Area with planning permission also being sought for refurbishment to existing offices and shop premises at 15B Merchants Quay and three apartment blocks proposed at the back of 15 Merchants Quay, on a large site fronting Edward Street and Catherine Street.
Housing Needs
According to figures from the NI Housing Executive for the Newry, Mourne and Down area
- The housing waiting list has 2,516 applicants in housing stress at 31 March 2019. Single households dominate the waiting list followed by small family and older persons.
- 907 people were awarded homeless full duty status during 2018/19
- 499 homes were allocated to waiting list applicants.
