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Plans for a multi-functional Theatre and Conference Centre in Newry have reached a significant new milestone with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council expecting construction to begin at the site early next year.
The existing historic and Grade 2 listed Town Hall will be renovated under the plans, with a new venue built upon the site of the neighbouring Sean Hollywood Arts Centre. Both will be linked by a glazed atrium that will allow the two buildings to operate as a single venue. The new venue will have 255 seats capable of being used in a range of theatre configurations and for a range of uses, supported by the latest in audio visual and performance systems.
The PQQ (Pre-Qualification Questionnaire) process is now underway for the provision of a contractor responsible for construction of the facility. The process, which identifies suitable suppliers, will conclude with invitations to tender for the scheme.
Currently, the planning application process is expected to conclude in the Autumn, and it is hoped construction will begin in early 2024.
An attractive public realm performance space to the rear of the centre is supported by Belfast Region City Deal (BRCD) and it is part of a plan to enhance cultural activity space in the heart of the City and attract more people into the centre who stay for longer and form part of a vibrant night-time economy.
In January 2023 a BRCD Contract for Funding was agreed for Newry City Centre Regeneration Projects. £5 million BRCD funding has been allocated for Public Realm at the Theatre and Conference Centre and Civic and Regional Hub, along with £3 million for a Grade A Office Accommodation Fund.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Valerie Harte welcomed the latest development. “The PQQ process is an important marker for any major construction project, and I am pleased to see this project on track to delivering a vibrant new space for the arts and business sectors in Newry,” said Cllr Harte.
“Today we move another step closer to major investment in Newry and bringing this project to life. The new Theatre and Conference Centre will play an important role in revitalising our City Centre as we aim to capitalise on our position along the Dublin to Belfast Economic Corridor.”
Gerard Murray, Director of the Department for Communities Regional Development Office said, “The Department for Communities welcomes this latest development in the Theatre and Conference Centre project for Newry. The Department is aware of the many potential social and economic benefits for the area and will continue to work closely with the Council to support development and delivery of Newry City Centre Regeneration Projects supported by the Belfast Region City Deal.”
