Newcastle looks blooming great for start of Irish Open

28 August 2024

NEWCASTLE is getting geared up for the Amgen Irish Open at Royal Co Down Golf Club.

With the prestigious event just three weeks away, Newry, Mourne and Down Council has announced a series of town-wide improvements and an exciting Fringe Events programme.

Thanks to funding received from the Department for Communities (DfC), the improvements include floral displays and golf themed entrance features, in addition to supporting a legacy project at Castle Park.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said “The Irish Open represents a massive opportunity for Newcastle and the wider Northern Ireland economy.

“This £260k funding from my department builds on the recent investment from DfC to refurbish the Newcastle Centre in the town and underlines my commitment to deliver improvements that will not only enhance this championship, but for the longer term. Newcastle is one of Northern Ireland’s most popular seaside destinations and this will help maximise the huge economic benefits this tournament and its legacy will bring to the area”.

The funding will also facilitate significant upgrades being carried out in Castle Park which will include improved car parking facilities, the installation of new bins and seating, and the provision of permanent electricity and water supplies to support future events and businesses using these enhanced amenities long after the final putt is sunk.

The Fringe Event Programme which will run from Friday, September 13, to the following Sunday, has been designed to capture the spirit of the championship, while also showcasing Newcastle’s vibrant local culture, cuisine, and entertainment.

Among the attractions will be a pop-up food village, offering visitors the chance to indulge in the finest local produce highlighting the region’s rich gastronomic heritage. Complementing the food offerings will be a host of family activities, live music and performances by talented artists from across the district, ensuring a lively and festive atmosphere throughout the weekend of the Amgen Irish Open.

For those golf enthusiasts who are not attending Royal County Down, you can catch all the live action and celebrity highlights as they unfold on the big screen in the Event Hub located at the rear of the Newcastle Centre.

Food lovers are in for a treat, as Newcastle Restaurant weekend, taking place during the Amgen Irish Open, brings together the town’s food and drink scene, with local restaurants, cafes and bars offering exclusive menus, special deals, and mouthwatering dishes crafted from the finest regional ingredients. Local venues will also be serving signature cocktails inspired by the area’s produce, adding a unique twist to the dining experience.

On Saturday, September 14, visitors can also embark on a culinary adventure with the inaugural Food and Drink Tour in Newcastle.

This walking experience takes participants on a journey through the heart of Newcastle, with stops at award-winning restaurants and hidden gems, each offering a unique taste of the region’s finest produce.

Along the way they can sample a variety of dishes - from fresh seafood to delectable ice-cream paired with expertly crafted beverages. Chefs and mixologists will be on hand to share the stories behind their creations, making this tour a delicious and informative adventure.

Council chairman Pete Byrne said: “The Amgen Irish Open presents an opportunity to showcase Newry, Mourne and Down with Newcastle taking centre stage.

“The investment from both the council and the Department for Communities will not only ensure that Newcastle is presented to a high standard during the Open, but the investment in Castle Park will create a lasting legacy with upgraded parking, enhanced street furniture, and improved event facilities that will benefit the community for years to come.

He added: “Throughout the tournament weekend, the Council, will host a vibrant programme of Fringe events to showcase the vibrant community of Newcastle and support local businesses by encouraging footfall to the town centre.”

Meanwhile, preparations are in full swing to ensure that that Newcastle and the surrounding areas are in pristine condition for the arrival of the world’s elite golfers and thousands of spectators.

Council deputy chairperson David Lee-Surginor said: “The council has completed extensive planting and themed floral displays in the centre and along the arterial routes of Newcastle to welcome golfers and visitors to the town.

“Our teams have also been working diligently to repair and clean all litter bins, benches and street furniture in addition to power washing the street pavement and checking the promenade lighting to ensure everything is in top condition.

“In addition, the council will be significantly upgrading our cleansing regime and adding bins for the duration of the tournament to ensure that the streets and the beach are kept to a very high level of cleanliness, despite the anticipated significant increase in visitors to the area.

He added: “I would appeal for residents to take pride in the area by simply using the litter bins provided and help the Council to showcase the area to its full potential.”

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