Urgent repairs needed for Newcastle Centre

Urgent repairs needed for Newcastle Centre

26 June 2013

DOWN Council’s most senior official has issued a stark warning about the condition of a large part of the Newcastle Centre.

The chief executive, Mr. John Dumigan, told councillors on Monday night that the roof at the rear of the complex requires “urgent repairs” before winter sets in.

He said water is leaking into the extension at the rear of the Annesley Buildings at Central Promenade which is continually exposed to the elements.

“There are a number of serious health and safety issues with parts of this building and we need to so something about them urgently. Our consultants have told us part of the Newcastle Centre is in a very poor condition and we may either have to close it for repairs or demolish it,” declared Mr. Dumigan.

Earlier this month, Down Council’s Building Control and Estates Committee recommended the closure of the rear of the Newcastle Centre, arguing the estimated £200,000 cost to repair the building “could not be justified.”

They suggested the needs of those who use the rear of the Annesley Buildings could be accommodated in other buildings in the resort and surrounding area.

On Monday night however, councillors agreed a two-pronged approach in a bid to deal with concerns about the Newcastle Centre.

They agreed to begin the process of appointing a contractor to carry out the required repairs as the money to finance the cost of the work has already been included in this year’s budget.

In addition, council officers have been tasked with identifying if there are in fact suitable premises in the Newcastle area which could accommodate the needs of people who frequently use the part of the town’s leisure centre which is in need of repair.

The officers have been asked to have their report completed for the next full council meeting in August when a final decision will be taken whether to carry out the repairs or close a large part of the Newcastle Centre.