Works Commence at Tyrella Beach New Visitor Amenity Facility

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne, has officially marked the beginning of construction works on the new, purpose-built Tyrella Beach Visitor Amenity Building. This modern facility forms a key part of Council’s vision and commitment to enhancing visitor experiences at this award-winning Blue Flag beach. 

The construction, led by Bell Contracts, will deliver modern toilet and changing facilities, a fully equipped ‘Changing Places’ toilet, an accessible restroom, outdoor showers and solar-powered electricity. In addition to the new amenities, the works will involve the removal of the previous beach building and storage container, allowing the area to revert to natural dune habitat with ecological benefits.

Tyrella Beach spans two kilometres of flat, sandy beach set against a backdrop of 25-hectares of mature sand dunes. It is one of three Blue Flag beaches within the Newry Mourne and Down District alongside Cranfield and Murlough. Tyrella Beach has proudly retained its Blue Flag status annually since 1997, recognised for its exemplary standards of beach cleanliness, safety, water quality and management. Tyrella Beach and Dunes is also a designated Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI).

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Byrne said, “I am delighted to mark the start of construction works at Tyrella Beach. This new amenity building will provide both locals and visitors with a high-quality, sustainable and accessible facility that will enhance the outdoor experience at this picturesque and award-winning location. 

Cllr Byrne continued, “Tyrella Beach is a unique asset within the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. The dunes are home to a diverse range of local flora and fauna whilst the expansive sandy beach and clean waters are perfect for a wide range of family-friendly outdoor activities. The new building will further enhance the visitor experience and I encourage all to come and enjoy this enhanced facility when it opens in the Summer of 2025”.