Delamont Country Park investment much needed

Delamont Country Park investment much needed

1 August 2018

COUNCIL officials are being urged to invest more money to increase visitor facilities at Delamont Country Park.

The park — located on the shores of Strangford Lough outside Killyleagh — attracts thousands of visitors each year, but there is growing concern about the lack of things for people to do.

Stunning picturesque walks are hugely popular, as is a children’s adventure playground, miniature railway and cafe, but Rowallane councillor, Billy Walker, argues more investment is needed to enhance what the country park has to offer. 

He believes much-needed investment will be money well spent, raising Delamont’s profile and boosting visitor figures further.

Alongside Rowallane colleague, Terry Andrews, he met recently with Newry, Mourne and Down Council officials and representatives from the Education Authority which runs an outdoor facility at Delamont, to look at potential new facilities which can be provided.

Council officials are currently carrying out a review of the country park which will look at future development, with Cllr Walker keen for its findings to be published as soon as possible.

“Delamont is one of the jewels in the district’s tourism crown. I believe the potential for exciting new development is enormous and that the park should enjoy the levels of investment council officials are pouring into other areas,” continued Cllr Walker. “All I am seeking for Delamont is a fair share of the funding cake.

“The Education Authority is planning to upgrade its facilities at Delamont and Newry, Mourne and Down Council must do likewise. Terry and I have also met with officials from the Seaboard Sailing Centre and Down Coastal Rowing Club to discuss the development of the country park.”

Cllr Walker said suggestions people have made to him to enhance what Delamont has to offer include a pitch and putt course, bowling green, water sports, a dedicated camping site and disc golf.

“These are only a few suggestions but given the huge area of land available at Delamont, there is scope moving forward. I also agree that future development must not have a negative impact on the country park,” he said.

Cllr Walker is also keen to see the walled garden area opened to the public, suggesting it would be a terrific venue for outdoor concerts.

“The bottom line is that funding must be made available to expand what Delamont offers to tourists. The country park is hugely popular and one of the most popular visitor attractions in the council area.

“It is important everything is done to further cement the park’s position as a top attraction and make it even more appealing. Perhaps council officials could do more to market Delamont. The country park hosted the annual Skiffie Festival last weekend and I share the view of others that there is major potential to develop other water sports activities.”

Cllr Walker said while Delamont operates a very successful caravan park, a dedicated and properly managed camping facility could also prove popular.

He added: “Delamont is an important tourism asset which needs to be expanded. It is ideally located at the gateway to our district from neighbouring North Down and Ards and can attract even more visitors. I am keen to see the review on its future development which can enhance the area’s economy.”

A Newry, Mourne and Down Council spokeswoman said the organisation is currently undertaking work to assess charges for entry to its outdoor facilities, including Delamont Country Park. She said more information will be made available as this review is progressed through the council.