NEWCASTLE area Sinn Féin Down District Councillor Willie Clarke has raised the condition of the surface of Beach Avenue in Newcastle with the Council Building and Estates Committee.
Councillor Clarke was responding to the issue after it had been raised recently by residents of the area. He added: “This is a very well used lane by pedestrians trying to access the beach
“At night, young people often gather at the laneway to drink alcohol and because of its seclusion, it is attracting anti-social elements. The laneway is not adopted by Roads Service and is categorised as a private road.
He said: “There has been considerable investment in the streetscape in Newcastle, but for the scheme to be able to achieve its full potential, I feel it must include the enhancement of the laneways connecting Newcastle’s other streets to Main Street, and this is paramount to the success of the regeneration of Newcastle.
“Some of our laneways are an absolute eyesore; they are in dire need of restoration This should include improved surfacing perhaps with natural stone, improved lighting, and adequate drainage.
“If motorists are to be encouraged to use car parks and help alleviate traffic congestion in Newcastle then the laneways that link the main street should be pedestrian friendly both visually and in regards to safety. I will continue to lobby Council and the DSD for the required resources to regenerate this laneway.”
