NEWS that a small visitor centre may get the go-ahead close to Dundrum Castle has been welcomed by Newcastle Alliance Down District Councillor Patrick Clarke.
The centre is one possible option being considered by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), in a bid to boost the tourism potential of the castle.
Councillor Clarke, a long-time campaigner on the issue, said: “It is about time some proper consideration was given to the tourism potential of Dundrum Castle. After all it is one of County Down’s hidden treasures.
“Currently the NIEA is responsible for maintaining Dundrum Castle and I wrote to the Environment Minister, highlighting the current lack of investment in the historic site.
“For a long time development has been held up until ownership of Castlehill Road, the road leading directly to the castle, could be determined. I am delighted to hear that not only is the NIEA going to continue searching for the owner, but that it will no longer hold up further improvements
“For a long time development has been held up until ownership of Castlehill, the unadopted private road leading directly to the Dundrum Castle, could be determined. I am pleased to hear that not only is the NIEA going to continue searching for the legal deed of title but that this unregistered piece of land will no longer hold up further improvements.
“I also acknowledge the hard work of the NIEA in trying to improve public access to the site, both by landscaping the car park and improving pedestrian access from it to the castle.”
