Sports hub for Newcastle welcomed by councillor

Sports hub for Newcastle welcomed by councillor

2 July 2025

FORMAL planning approval for a new sports hub in Newcastle has been welcomed by Mournes councillor Willie Clarke.

The Newry, Mourne and Down Council investment in a new two-storey facility will be built in Donard Park and feature changing facilities, a kitchen, indoor sports hall and squash courts, while the existing pavilion which will be retained and used as a storage facility.

The development aims to meet the needs of local sports clubs and the wider community, potentially serving multiple sports on one site, with the hub part of a larger strategy to develop sports facilities across the district.

A series of public meetings were held to allow local people to have their say on the development.

Cllr Clarke said the current pavilion is no longer fit for purpose and fails to provide the basic changing facilities needed by local teams and visitors. 

“This marks a huge step forward in delivering much-needed facilities that will benefit our entire community,” he said.

“The sports hub will be designed to accommodate a range of sports and recreational activities, promoting physical wellbeing and encouraging greater community engagement.”

Cllr Clarke has welcomed confirmation that the “outdated single-storey pavilion” while no longer suitable for its original use, will be retained and repurposed for storage, ensuring the efficient use of existing park infrastructure.

He added: “The new hub will provide vital support to local clubs and organisations and will be a space where residents of all ages can come together to lead healthier, more active lives. My sincere thanks go to everyone who contributed to this project.”