Write a comment
Local politicians literally took a back seat at last Wednesday’s Newry BID facilitated emergency meeting, called for by local businesses.
While almost 90 members of the city centre retail, hospitality, professional services, landlords and others from the business community, sat at tables discussing topics including last October’s flooding, high business rates, parking and the council’s proposed new offices behind Newry Cathedral, elected representatives, who had been invited along, were there to watch and listen as the feelings of those present at each table were delivered in real time onto a large screen before a run through by facilitator Brian Cleland allowing all to see what was being discussed at each table.
The common themes throughout the evening across all the tables was Newry Mourne and Down District Council’s absence of engagement, poor communications, a lack of transparency and no accountability.
Flooding
The impact of the devastating flooding started the meeting off with the council’s failure to support, engage and communicate with businesses before, during and after the floods to the fore, coupled with a lack of transparency.
Businesses expressed frustration over not being kept informed or updated about plans and relief efforts with BID Manager Eamonn Connolly telling those present that if there was a flood tomorrow, the city couldn’t cope as nothing had been put in place to mitigate flooding since last October.
The lack of the availability of flood insurance for city centre businesses was also a real concern while financial aid was delayed or insufficient. Businesses were often required to spend money upfront and wait for long periods to get reimbursements, if at all.
There was a strong call for accountability from those in charge. Many felt that there was no one clearly responsible for taking ownership of the situation, leading to a blame game and no clear path to resolution.
Businesses wanted to see early flood warning systems and preventive measures put in place. They also wanted to see a comprehensive flood management plan publicly shared including a flood risk map and a long-term strategy with detailed actions, responsibilities and future preventive measures.
Civic Centre (new council offices)
The most frequently mentioned concern across all tables was the high cost of the Civic Centre project which began life at an estimated cost of £7m in September 2019 and is now nearer to £25m+.
Many participants questioned the financial burden on ratepayers, the potential for overspending, and whether the expenditure was justified given the current economic climate.
There were calls for transparency about the true final cost and the location of the proposed Civic Centre was a significant point of contention.
Many participants felt that the chosen site was unsuitable, suggesting that other more appropriate locations within Newry, such as the old Lidl site or the Quays, should be considered. Concerns were raised about the impact on parking, the proximity to the Cathedral, and the overall suitability of the site for a civic centre.
The lack of transparency and communication from the council was a concern and participants expressed frustration over not being adequately consulted and felt that the council was pushing its own agenda.
There were calls for an independent review of the project.
There was also confusion and scepticism about the true purpose of the civic centre and the design was criticised as being outdated, too large and not reflective of the current working landscape post-Covid, where more staff are working from home.
Participants were worried about the negative impact of the offices on Newry’s local area including the loss of car park spaces, the effect on the city’s architectural heritage, and the potential for the project to detract from other critical needs such as flood defences and business hubs.
Businesses wanted the council to look at alternative sites within Newry, including the old Lidl site, Debenhams, or other vacant buildings to potentially reduce costs and alleviate issues related to parking and proximity to important landmarks like the Cathedral.
Enhanced transparency and local stakeholder engagement were seen as crucial steps.
Many participants advocated for the use of existing vacant buildings for the offices to save costs and preserve the city’s heritage involving repurposing vacant buildings within the city, making the project more sustainable and economically viable.
Finally, there were calls for independent oversight of the project to ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of Newry’s residents and businesses, open meetings between the council and ratepayers and honest communication about the project’s costs, purpose, and progress.
Business Rates
The financial burden of high business rates is causing significant financial strain, making it difficult for businesses to survive. Many mentioned that rates are a leading factor in business closures, stifling investment, reducing footfall and contributing to the decline of the high street. This has led to vacant units, a decrease in business activity and a negative visual impact on the town centre.
It was felt there was a lack of transparency and accountability with businesses expressing frustration over how rates are calculated. Despite high rates, businesses feel they are not receiving adequate services included bins collections, poor street cleaning, lack of amenities and insufficient maintenance.
Businesses want to see a rate reduction and relief; a fairer and more equitable rates system - manufacturers get a 70% rates relief - increased transparency and accountability; support and incentives for businesses included creating urban development programs, offering exemptions or incentives for new businesses, and extending rate relief periods to encourage business growth and investment in the town centre.
Car Parking
Businesses reported a significant loss of customers and sales due to parking constraints with customers often choosing to shop elsewhere, like Banbridge or Dundalk where parking is free or cheaper. Reduced footfall due to parking issues was a common complaint.
The parking situation was creating a negative experience for customers, who often receive parking tickets or struggle with confusing parking rules and malfunctioning meters which were discouraging repeat visits.
The presence and behaviour of traffic wardens was frequently mentioned as a deterrent to customers. It was felt traffic wardens are overly aggressive and contribute to driving people out of the town centre.
There were strong calls for introducing free parking periods, such as two hours and grace periods to allow for short stops without the risk of fines.
Businesses suggested a simplification and harmonization of parking systems with a single, cohesive approach to parking management recommended to reduce confusion and inconvenience.
Many comments called for more lenient enforcement of parking rules, particularly for delivery vehicles and short-term parking. Reducing the number of traffic wardens and adopting a less punitive approach were common suggestions.
Suggestions included the creation of more parking spaces, such as multi-storey car parks, especially near key areas like the Cathedral and arts centre.
Political Listeners
At the Canal Court for Sinn Féin were Liz Kimmins MLA and Newry City councillors Aidan Mathers and Cathal King. DUP Mournes councillor Glynn Hanna, Independent Crotlieve councillor Jarlath Tinnelly and Alliance Slieve Croob councillor and Newry native Helena Young were also there. SDLP Newry City councillors Killian Feehan and Doire Finn were not in attendance with Cllr Feehan out of the country and Cllr Finn attending a prior arranged meeting. UUP councillor David Taylor also sent apologies in advance of the meeting.
In a press statement issued after the event, Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins, acknowledged the voice of the Newry business community was heard ‘loud and clear’.
“Dozens of businesses attended the Canal Court Hotel, where we heard the key issues that are impacting on our local retailers day and daily,”
“With many common themes emerging, it was apparent that better communication, transparency and accountability in local government is essential”.
“My party colleagues and I are committed to supporting our local businesses and we are determined to make progress on the issues raised, to regenerate our city centre and build a thriving economy that will benefit everyone across our area.”
Concluding the Newry MLA added: “I want to thank Newry BID for facilitating what was a very constructive meeting, and I look forward to continuing our work with local business representatives in the time ahead.”
