Council Teeing up with the Return of the Amgen Irish Open

With the prestigious Amgen Irish Open teeing off next month at Royal County Down, Newcastle from Wednesday 11 to Sunday 15 September 2024, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is gearing up with a series of town-wide improvements and an exciting Fringe event programme. 

Thanks to funding received from the Department for Communities (DfC), these initiatives aim to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for families, golfers and visitors during the Amgen Irish Open and include floral displays and golf themed entrance features, in addition to supporting a legacy project at Castle Park. 

Welcoming the return of the Amgen Irish Open to Newcastle, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said “The Irish Open represents a massive opportunity for Newcastle and the wider Northern Ireland economy. This £260k funding from my department builds on the recent investment from DfC to refurbish the Newcastle Centre in the town and underlines my commitment to deliver improvements that will not only enhance this Championship, but for the longer term. Newcastle is one of Northern Ireland's most popular seaside destinations and this will help maximise the huge economic benefits this tournament and its legacy will bring to the area”.

The Irish Open Legacy Funding from DfC will facilitate significant upgrades being carried out in Castle Park which will include improved car parking facilities, the installation of new bins and seating, and the provision of permanent electricity and water supplies to support future events and businesses using these enhanced amenities long after the final putt of the Amgen Irish Open.

The Council’s Fringe Event Programme which will run from Friday 13 September to Sunday 15 September has been designed to capture the spirit of the Amgen Irish Open while showcasing Newcastle’s vibrant local culture, cuisine, and entertainment. Among the attractions will be a pop-up food village, offering visitors the chance to indulge in the finest local produce highlighting the region’s rich gastronomic heritage. Complementing the food offerings will be a host of family activities, live music and performances by talented artists from across the district, ensuring a lively and festive atmosphere throughout the weekend of the Amgen Irish Open.

For those golf enthusiasts who are not attending Royal County Down, you can catch all the live action and celebrity highlights as they unfold on the big screen in the Event Hub located at the rear of the Newcastle Centre. 

Food lovers are in for a treat, as Newcastle Restaurant weekend, taking place during the Amgen Irish Open, brings together the town’s food and drink scene, with local restaurants, cafes and bars offering exclusive menus, special deals, and mouthwatering dishes crafted from the finest regional ingredients. Local venues will also be serving signature cocktails inspired by the area’s produce, adding a unique twist to the dining experience.

On Saturday 14 September, visitors can also embark on a culinary adventure with the inaugural Food and Drink Tour in Newcastle! This immersive walking experience takes participants on a journey through the heart of Newcastle, with stops at award winning restaurants and hidden gems, each offering a unique taste of the region’s finest produce. Along the way you can sample a variety of dishes - from fresh seafood to delectable ice-cream paired with expertly crafted beverages. Chefs and mixologists will be on hand to share the stories behind their creations, making this tour a delicious and informative adventure.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne said, "The Amgen Irish Open presents an opportunity to showcase Newry, Mourne and Down with Newcastle taking centre stage. The investment from both the Council and the Department for Communities will not only ensure that Newcastle is presented to a high standard during the Open, but the investment in Castle Park will create a lasting legacy with upgraded parking, enhanced street furniture, and improved event facilities that will benefit the community for years to come

Councillor Byrne continued, “Throughout the tournament weekend, the Council, will host a vibrant programme of Fringe events to showcase the vibrant community of Newcastle and support local businesses by encouraging footfall to the Town Centre”.