NMD Council Welcomes New Interpretative Panels in Crossgar
Three new interpretative panels located around the centre of Crossgar have helped connect the local community to the village’s colourful past
The captivating history of Crossgar has come to life with the unveiling of the three interpretative panels strategically positioned throughout the village.
The panels are the brainchild of the Crossgar Area Community Association and have been funded by the Department of Communities’ Historic Environment Fund Revival Scheme.
At the unveiling of the new panels, was attended by Newry Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson, Councillor Gareth Sharvin.
He said: “The Council was pleased to assist with the project.
“Council welcomes the new installations detailing the history of Crossgar and commends the Community Association’s determination to encourage local people to learn more about their history.
“I would like to thank the Department of Communities for funding this initiative through their Heritage Environment Fund and hope that visitors and local people alike enjoy the panels.”
Delving into the village’s rich past, the Community Association researched its history, tracing it back to the late seventeenth century when the area was known as Everogue’s Bridge.
The journey unfolds through time, highlighting the emergence of the ‘new’ village of Crossgar as a bustling market town.
The panels are positioned at Lislea Drive Playing Fields, the Square Car Park and Killyleagh Street.
These interpretative panels outline this historical transformation, providing information on some of the key landmarks within the area.
The project not only enriches the villages amenities for local people, but also fosters a deeper connection with their heritage.
Additionally, for visitors exploring Crossgar, these panels offer a captivating glimpse into the local history, enhancing their experience.
The Communities Historic Environment Fund Revival Scheme played an integral part in this project.
This funding scheme supports heritage work throughout Northern Ireland enabling Community groups and owners of historic properties the ability to access various funding streams.
The funds contribute towards stimulating heritage projects which increase public awareness of the heritage value of historic buildings and monuments.
Rowallane DUP Councillor Callum Bowsie said: “I am delighted new history signs have been installed around Crossgar.
“The three locations I’ve chosen are at Everogue’s Bridge, Market Square, and Killyleagh St (site of a battle).
“Each outlines a different aspect of Crossgar’s rich history using information I’ve gathered over the years.
“Unlike other villages in Rowallane, Crossgar has never had any history signage.
“I’ve been lobbying for history signs around Crossgar for years and finally a grant of £4000 was found last year through DfC’s Historic Environment Fund.
“I would like to thank Crossgar Area Community Association for supporting my funding application.
“And thanks to the Historical Environment Division and to Newry MOurne and Down District Councill for their cooperation over the last year, as well as Crossgar LOL.
“I would also like to thank Philip Spratt from Crossgar for designing the signs, and Platinum Expo (Carryduff) for manufacturing them.
