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A Newry delegation, including SDLP councillors Killian Feehan and Doire Finn, Alliance Party councillor Helena Young, and Jimmy Crossey from the Newry Maritime Association recently held an online meeting with Birmingham City Council officials to explore how lessons from the regeneration of Birmingham’s canal network could be applied to Newry.
It follows the passing of a motion at full council where Council reaffirmed its commitment to the regeneration of Newry Canal to realise its full potential as a key recreation, tourism, biodiversity, and economic development asset.
The meeting focused on the transformation of Birmingham’s once-neglected waterways into vibrant community and economic assets, a journey that has delivered benefits across tourism, local business development, sustainable transport, and public well-being.
The councillors taking part agreed that the regeneration of Newry Canal represents a vital opportunity for collaborative, forward-looking leadership.
Speaking after the meeting, Councillor Feehan said: “This conversation with Birmingham City Council made clear what can be achieved when local government shows ambition and works together. Newry Canal has huge potential — but realising that will require political unity and community buy-in. That’s why we’re proud to be working across party lines to bring this project forward.”
The SDLP have commended the involvement of colleagues from other parties and community groups, stressing that the future of Newry Canal should be a shared priority for everyone in the district.
“We were pleased to join Alliance Party councillor Helena Young and Newry Maritime Association to demonstrate a shared commitment and vision for what Newry canal can become, a rejuvenated hub for recreation, heritage, commerce and environmental sustainability.” concluded Cllr Feehan.
