Local towns will get boost in environmental scheme

Local towns will get boost in environmental scheme

28 February 2024

SAINTFIELD and Castlewellan are to benefit from environmental  improvement schemes being proposed by Newry, Mourne and Down Council.

The schemes are part of the Small Settlements Regeneration Programme and are being funded by the council along with the Department for Communities, Department for Infrastructure, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. 

The council and its consultants, AECOM, have been working with the local communities and statutory stakeholders in relation to the design and submission of planning applications.

Proposed projects include enhancing public realm, upgrading footpaths, providing new street furniture and lighting and public seating.

Planning submissions were approved in late 2023 and the schemes are now progressing through the procurement stages to enable site works to commence in early 2024. Contractors will be making direct contact with affected businesses and premises to keep them informed of the planned programme of works in the coming weeks. 

Similar regeneration schemes have been earmarked for Dundrum, Killyleagh, Strangford and Killough.

Council chairperson Valerie Harte said: “The Small Settlement Regeneration Programme will enable significant investment in revitalising our small towns and villages, creating a more vibrant and welcoming environment.

“The regeneration of our small settlements is a wonderful example of how local communities actively engage and inform development initiatives to enhance their futures. This funding will help connect our communities and create public spaces that will encourage active travel and enhance the quality of life in Newry, Mourne and Down.”

Department for Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said: “The regeneration initiatives currently being delivered by Newry, Mourne and Down Council through funding from the Small Settlements Programme will make our small towns and villages more appealing, accessible, vibrant, and welcoming.

“They will provide facilities, infrastructure, and help to make them even more attractive places where people will want to live, work, visit and invest.”

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir, said: “This continued investment in revitalising and regenerating rural towns and villages will enhance the aesthetic appeal and sustainability of these settlements.

“The Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme acts a catalyst for further regeneration and investment, it will increase the footfall of locals and visitors alike, and the dwell time of users. This will help economic activity and have a positive effect on the health and wellbeing of all who shop locally or visit.”

Department for Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd said: “The Small Settlements Regeneration Programme is a great example of inter-departmental working to deliver real change in how people live and work in the post pandemic world.

“I am delighted that my department was able to contribute to this programme which supports initiatives on the ground and has already brought tangible benefits to our rural communities.”