A big welcome to Downpatrick, but mind the weeds

A big welcome to Downpatrick, but mind the weeds

12 August 2015

TOWERING weeds close to four of Downpatrick’s top attractions has led to calls for better maintenance of tourist areas.

Parts of the historic Grove, which links the St Patrick Centre, Downpatrick railway, Down Cathedral and Down County Museum, have only been cut once this year resulting in huge weeds beside paths linking the attractions.

Local politicians have urged Newry Mourne and Down Council to do more to prioritise tourist areas, particularly places like the Grove which is at the heart of Downpatrick’s heritage trail.

South Down MP Margaret Ritchie said it was important for the council to adequately maintain the area below Down Cathedral, particularly over the summer months.

Although she recognised budgetary cuts imposed on public bodies would have an impact on services, including grass cutting and gardening, she said it was vital for the council to prioritise areas used by visitors.

She said tourists deserved safe access to public areas and tourist attractions, which are being promoted as part of the St Patrick Country tourist project.

“It is vital that the council prioritise areas of work that will ensure visitors to the area and locals have safe unhindered access to our public sites and our tourist attractions,” she said. 

“The Grove area is an important pedestrian link for visitors experiencing the St Patrick’s and the early Christian heritage trail, linking the St Patrick’s Centre with Down Cathedral, St Patrick’s Grave and Down County museum.

“We must ensure that the tourism potential of St Patrick’s Country is fully developed and enhanced and this involves a respect for the local environment.”

Ms. Ritchie’s call was echoed by local councillor William Walker who described The Grove as a “district attraction.”

He said overgrown grass and weeds sent out the wrong message to locals and tourists as the summer season continues.

“It is not in keeping with the message we are sending out about the importance of tourism,” he said. “This is an area of outstanding natural beauty and we encourage visitors here for that reason.

“With the extreme weather, grass and weeds are getting out of control and need to be cut back. I thought the council would have more sense than to let this area get out of control as it needs to look good if we are to encourage tourists to return.”

A council spokeswoman said the areas in question were considered “rough cut areas” and were scheduled to be cut twice a year. She said the next cut was due at the end of August.