Storey announces £640,000 funding for the regeneration of Warrenpoint

Social Development Minister, Mervyn Storey MLA, has visited Warrenpoint today to announce funding for a new £2.1million regeneration scheme for the town centre.

The Department for Social Development (DSD) has invested £640,000 into the Public Realm scheme, working jointly with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to regenerate the Church Street, Charolette Street, Town Square, Newry Road and Dock Street areas of the town.

Minister Storey said: “Warrenpoint is a very popular seaside town set in the picturesque surrounding of Carlingford Bay. This major regeneration scheme will significantly improve the appearance of the town centre to create an even more welcoming space for visitors and locals alike.”

The regeneration work, which is due to begin before the end of October, includes:

New kerbing; New footways in natural stone paving; Undergrounding of overhead cables; New street lighting and furniture; Bespoke signage and feature lighting; and Landscaping work.

Minister Storey added: “I know from the success of Public Realm improvement schemes in other towns and cities that regeneration schemes such as this can transform a place. They also sustain employment in the construction sector, which in turn supports the wider economy.”

In addition to the proposed Public Realm improvements, Northern Ireland Electricity will be taking the opportunity to undertake a major upgrade of their infrastructure within Warrenpoint town centre.

Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Cllr Naomi Bailie, said: “The Warrenpoint, Public Realm scheme is helping to deliver on a key objective as highlighted within the South East Coast Masterplan. The Council will be working closely with DSD to ensure that all key stakeholders are kept informed about the programme and sequence of the proposed works.”