Independent Slieve Croob area Councillor Patrick Clarke has welcomed that directional signs leading to Loughinisland historic Churches which are the ancient burial grounds of the McCartan Clan of the Barony of Kinelarty are to be replaced with two signs.
Councillor Clarke had written to both DRD and DOE regarding improving the current dilapidated signage directing visitors to the Loughinisland Churches. He added that it was time for the new Council to harmonise such beautiful historic sites such as Loughinisland within their work of the new Council in promoting tourism.
“I have been advised that work is currently underway by DRD Transport NI to establish costs and deliver a time frame for the replacement of two signs at Drumgooland Road to replace the current signage which are in very poor condition.
“Given the historic significance of the Loughinisland Churches, I believe it would be particularly important now, in the context of the new Council, that these kind of links are brought forward in the work of the Council.
“South Down is particularly rich in terms of the number, quality and range of historic build heritage that survive such as the Loughinisland Churches, many of which are very publicly accessible.”
“I believe there is tremendous opportunity for the new council to capitalise on promoting these, and bring our built and archaeological heritage to the fore in its plans for the future of the new council region and the promotion of these as tourism attractions.
“I intend to raise this matter with Council officers.”
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