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Warrenpoint Community Association is calling on Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to prioritise the restoration of the town's historic sea baths, positioning the project as a cornerstone in a broader cross-border regeneration strategy for the Carlingford Lough region. With Belfast Region City Deal funding now potentially available for reallocation, following difficulties with the proposed Mourne Mountains project the Association is asking councillors to actively champion this initiative, leveraging available funding opportunities to bring the vision to fruition.
Constructed in 1907, the Warrenpoint Sea Baths hold significant historical and cultural value. The Association envisions transforming the site into a modern, heritage-sensitive facility featuring an outdoor sea pool, wellness centre, and accessible public spaces for both residents and visitors. This redevelopment aligns with existing planning permissions and complements ongoing regional projects, including:
Narrow Water Bridge - A pedestrian and cyclist-friendly crossing under construction, linking Warrenpoint and Omeath, fostering cross-border connectivity.
Newry City Park - An £18 million initiative transforming the Albert Basin into a vibrant urban green space.
Newry Canal Revival - Proposals to rejuvenate Ireland's oldest summit canal, enhancing tourism and heritage appreciation.
Carlingford Lough Greenway - Development of sustainable travel routes connecting communities along both sides of the lough.
The Association emphasises that restoring the sea baths would not only preserve a cherished landmark but also serve as a catalyst for economic growth, tourism, and community well-being. With the recent withdrawal of the Mourne Mountains Gateway project, there is an urgent opportunity to redirect funding towards community-supported initiatives like this.
"Revitalising the Warrenpoint Sea Baths is more than a restoration project; it's about honouring our heritage and investing in our future," said a spokesperson for the Warrenpoint Community Association. "We urge our councillors to seize this moment and lead the charge in transforming the baths into a beacon of regional pride and cross-border unity."
The Association is calling on councillors, the local chamber of commerce, tourism bodies, and cross-border agencies to reaffirm their support and work together to deliver a project that reflects both community heritage and regional ambition.
