Planning Permission Sought for Cross Border Hub on Former Good Shepherd Site

Outline Planning Permission is being sought for a Cross Border Mixed Logistics and Business Hub on the site of the former Good Shepherd Convent just of the A1 dual carriageway.

Applicants Ricapa Ltd located at Shelbourne Motors believe that the proposal on the 8.4 hectare site will support the development and growth of that part of Newry.

Documentation in the application explains the Hub is a major investment aimed at strengthening Newry’s economic and transport infrastructure. "A feature of the scheme is a new service link road which will connect Armagh Road with Shepherds Way, improving traffic flow and local connectivity. The Proposed Development will deliver a modern HGV lorry park with a dedicated Drivers Services Building, providing essential rest facilities and enabling a reduction in heavy vehicle movements through Newry town centre. Included in this development is a mix of commercial and industrial facilities, including a mechanic’s workshop and training centre, car showroom, call centre offices (B1), light industrial units (B2), general industrial units (B3), a storage and distribution warehouse (B4), and a café. The proposal incorporates extensive landscaping to enhance the Site’s visual impact as well as ensuring the sensitive preservation of the existing graveyard."

The proposal location is on lands north of 128 Armagh Road and east of the A1 Motorway, west of the Bessbrook Road/Tandragee Road and south of the playing fields at the Carnbane Road / Shepherds Way / Tandragee Road Roundabout, Newry.

A further document in the application adds "The uses are logistics in providing a parking area for HGV lorries close to the border and the Warrenpoint Port, a car showroom and repairs business which benefits from the close proximity of other showrooms close-by, close proximity of Warrenpoint Port for freight and the close proximity of the border for cross border car sales. The industrial uses give cross border companies the opportunity to locate a business in Northern Ireland, providing access to the GB and NI markets and regulatory systems and also the opportunity to provide a quick and easy access to the Republic of Ireland market, and encouraging staff and customers to come from both sides of the border. These uses alongside the ancillary use of the café complement the approved development of the strategic roadside services facility approved beside the site."

The application documentation also mentions that the developer is aware of a suggestion by a local action group, that the site may contain human remains relating to the former Good Shepherd Sisters Mother and Baby Home which was located there.

It adds that they are acutely aware of the historical sensitivities associated with the site's former use and explain "In recognition of the profound significance of the on-site graveyard and the concerns regarding potential unmarked burials, the proposal adopts a precautionary approach of absolute non-disturbance in these sensitive zones."

The application was submitted 3 February 2026.