Cllr Willie Clarke Calls for “Old Town Newcastle” Branding and New Heritage Signage at Harbour
Mournes Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke has urged Newry Mourne and Down District Council to formally brand Newcastle Harbour as the “Old Town” and to install new interpretation signage to highlight the area’s rich built heritage.
Councillor Clarke said the initiative would help both residents and visitors better understand the historical significance of the Harbour area, including its unique structures, archaeological features and cultural landmarks.
He said: “The Rock Pool is at the heart of the ‘Old Town’ Newcastle and plays a vital role in maintaining built heritage in this historical area.
“There are only two of these ancient gems across the North, and they must be protected, restored and enjoyed by the local community.”
Cllr Clarke has specifically called for interpretation panels to be installed at the Black Rock garden overlooking the Harbour.
These would provide clear information on key sites of interest in the immediate area, including the two medieval fish traps, the Rock Pool outdoor swimming facility and the World War II watchtower.
“Interpretation panels are a valuable way to educate and inform visitors about the environment around them,” he added. “They can showcase natural history, archaeology and our built heritage in a way that is accessible and engaging.”
In addition to physical signage, Cllr Clarke is requesting that Council officers explore the development of a digital heritage app to support storytelling and visitor engagement. The proposed app would offer a narrated guide to the area’s historical assets, including:
• Newcastle Harbour and the Watch House,
•. The Granite Trail,
• Annesley Hall,
• The 1843 Newcastle Fishing Disaster and Widows’ Row,
• The former site of Donard Lodge,
• The SS Great Britain anchor,
• The Bloody Bridge.
