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Councillors Killian Feehan, Declan McAteer and Doire Finn have welcomed yesterday's decision to approve planning permission for the proposed Newry City park, paying tribute to the local community organisations and campaigners whose commitment helped turn a long-held ambition into a deliverable project.
Newry City Councillor Killian Feehan described the approval as a landmark moment for the city. "This is a landmark moment for Newry that has been many years in the making, and, above all, a testament to what can be achieved when a community gets behind an idea and refuses to let that ambition fade."
He praised the role played by local campaigners in building support for the project. "Local community organisations and campaigners have been absolutely central to building support for a City Park. They gave this project credibility, kept people engaged and deserve enormous credit for everything they have contributed to reaching this milestone."
Fellow Newry Councillor Doire Finn also spoke of the strength of community backing for the project. "Throughout this process, we had the strength of a community behind the project. We have been delighted to work alongside those organisations and individuals who championed the Albert Basin and believed in what this site could become."
Cllr Finn added that focus now turns to delivery. "Now we need to carry that partnership into the delivery stage. This park belongs to the whole of Newry, and we want to see work progressing so that this incredible waterside space can be enjoyed by generations to come."
Crotlieve Councillor Declan McAteer said reaching this stage had required an enormous amount of detailed work. "I particularly want to recognise our Council planners, officers and staff who worked collaboratively to develop a design capable of satisfying a wide range of statutory consultees."
He said there had been significant planning issues to overcome, as the existing Area Plan had envisaged 40 social housing units and other mixed-use development on part of the site. "There were significant planning issues to overcome. The existing Area Plan envisaged 40 social housing units and other mixed-use development on part of this site, so moving away from that provision to create a dedicated public park had to be carefully considered and robustly justified. I was proud to second the proposal at our Planning Committee."
