Alliance Newry Mourne and Down Councillors criticise Newry Civic Centre approval
Alliance representatives in the Newry, Mourne and Down councillors have expressed disappointment at the decision to approve planning permission for the Newry Civic Centre, highlighting the significant concerns regarding the size, location, and cost of the project.
The proposed civic centre in Newry has received thousands of objections from local residents and the Catholic Church as well as concerns from statutory agencies such as DFI Roads, DFI Rivers, the Historic Environment Division, NI Water.
Councillor Cadogan Enright said: “Alliance has opposed the Newry Civic Centre project since its inception.
“While we support the idea of providing modern office accommodation for council staff, this proposal goes beyond what is required to meet those needs.
“The location at Abbey Way in Newry raises major issues, including the removal of parking spaces from Newry City Centre.
“The proposed off-site staff parking, coupled with shuttle bus transportation, is inadequate and impractical.
“Alliance has repeatedly called for alternative sites to avoid these disruptions and ensure staff and residents have appropriate access to parking.”
Alliance NMD Group Leader, Councillor Jill Truesdale added: “The proposed building size is grossly overstated.
“Designed before the pandemic, it does not reflect current working patterns or the fact that the NI Civil Service has withdrawn its interest in using the facility.
“The NI Audit Office raised concerns in August about the decision-making process and the project’s viability.
“These concerns, alongside objections from statutory agencies and Newry residents, have been completely overlooked.
“This decision is disappointing for residents, businesses, and ratepayers across the district who may yet face increased rates to. pay for this.
“Alliance will continue to raise concerns with this project to ensure ratepayers are not hit with unnecessary rates increases in the future.”
