Public Information Day for Mourne Mountains Gateway Project

Proposals for the regeneration of the disused Thomas Quarry into a world class visitor experience in the Mournes will be on view to the public as part of an information day in Newcastle on 9 March.

The information day at O’Hare’s, Central Promenade, Newcastle, will be open for two sessions on 9 March between 10am to 3pm and 5pm to 7pm.

The Mourne Mountains Gateway Project aims to redefine the visitor experience of the Mourne Mountains whilst supporting the sustainable growth of tourism and protecting and enhancing the natural heritage and habitat of the region.  The project will deliver a visitor attraction of international interest and create improved and more sustainable access to the Mournes.

Members of the public will be able to view information relating to the project, talk to staff, and comment on the project.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Michael Savage said, “An overall £200 million package of investment is coming to our district through Belfast Region City Deal funding for projects based on tourism, regeneration, and innovation. For the Mourne Mountains Gateway Project, £30 million of the total estimated project cost of £44 million is earmarked for Belfast Region City Deal funding. This is an unmissable opportunity for us in Newry, Mourne and Down to offer a tourist attraction of international interest that will support the sustainable growth of tourism and hospitality.

“We can now share further details on how we visualise this project coming to life, with key themes including a focus on supporting sustainable tourism, and improvements to infrastructure and accessibility. I would encourage residents to come along to the information day on 9 March and see the proposals at first hand.”