Motorcycle safety event coming to Newcastle County Down on Sunday 17th May
The South Down Neighbourhood Policing Team in partnership with PSNI Road Policing Unit and Newry, Mourne & Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership, is hosting a Motorcycle Safety event on the Central Promenade in Newcastle on Sunday 17th May.
Motorcycling enthusiasts can have their bike safety checked by a qualified mechanic and get tips and advice from police about keeping safe on our roads.
Sergeant Kenny Gracey said: “Unlike people travelling in motor vehicles, motorcyclists have a lot less protection when they’re involved in a collision.
“Motorcyclists are much more likely to be killed or seriously injured when involved in a road traffic collision than a car driver for the same distance travelled.
“This makes motorcyclists especially vulnerable if they come off their bike or are struck by another vehicle.
“We know motorcyclists are passionate about their sport and we want them to be able to pursue their pastime in the safest way possible.
“That is why, in addition to mechanics performing safety checks on bikes on the day, we will also have representatives from Bikesafe at the event.
“The aim of Bikesafe, a national police-led motorcycle road safety scheme, is to raise awareness amongst motorcyclists of the key risks they can face on the roads and assist them in becoming more confident and skilful advanced riders.”
Sergeant Gracy added: “Already this year four motorcyclists have been killed on our roads and as a police service we do not want to see any more needless loss of life.
Representatives from the charities Mental Health Motorbike and the Air Ambulance NI will also be on site along with our colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service.
“So come along to the event in Newcastle, have your bike checked and speak to police officers and the other agencies present, all of whom will be only too happy to provide any help or advice they can to make sure your motorcycling career is as long and as safe as possible.”
Over 1,500 rural homes connected to full fibre broadband as Project Gigabit NI reaches first major milestone
• Connected to the world around us – the key to one customer connected to faster broadband
Over 1,500 Northern Ireland homes have now been connected as the first phase of Project Gigabit NI is officially complete as 1,593 rural households and businesses across Northern Ireland, have been connected to full fibre broadband for the first time ever.
The Gigabit orders since January 2026 have included a wide range of customers across the province from Portaferry, Moneymore in Co Londonderry and Newtownstewart in Co Tyrone. There has been a wide distribution across the most rural areas of Northern Ireland. Hard to reach rural homes have all benefited from this regionally balanced new programme.
Awarded to Fibrus, the £34.6 million Project is funded by the UK government through the Department for Science, Innovation, & Technology (DSIT) and delivered by Department for the Economy (DfE) will ultimately bring full fibre access to 9,333 of the most rural and hard to reach homes and businesses, helping to future proof communities where connectivity has historically lagged behind urban areas.
One of the first customers connected through Project Gigabit, Clement McArdle lives with his wife in the foothills of the Mourne Mountains, between Mayobridge and Hilltown, surrounded by quarries and a busy haulage road.
With little to no mobile phone signal and unreliable, slow broadband speeds, Clement has lived with the quiet frustrations of buffering and connectivity issues for years.
Clement McArdle now has a reliable full fibre broadband and can phone now without breaks, blockages and buffering.
Streaming would buffer, video calls with family were hit and miss, and even basic online access depended on copper cables and luck.
Today, Clement’s home just outside Newry has become a symbol of how full fibre connectivity is transforming rural life after becoming the first property in Northern Ireland to receive a connection under Project Gigabit.
At 69, Clement is enjoying retirement in the foothills of the Mourne Mountains, It was a beautiful but challenging place to live when it comes to digital connectivity. There is little to no mobile phone signal, leaving households dependent on fixed broadband.
Now a symbol of the difference Project Gigabit is making in the real world, Clement has moved from 5Mbps to 500Mbps speeds, bringing peace of mind, better connection and new everyday freedoms.
He can now stay in touch with family, with their son working in Mayo and their daughter living in Dundalk, reliable video calling has become part of everyday life, and since becoming connected to full fibre broadband, is a seamless conversation rather than a jittery phone call.
This contract follows the successful delivery of Project Stratum, a £200 million initiative backed by the Department for the Economy that brought full fibre broadband to more than 81,000 premises across Northern Ireland, and sees it reign as the leading region in digital connectivity with a rate of 96%.
Rolling out network infrastructure where Clement lives is a complex and demanding undertaking, one that is led by Fibrus’ delivery partner, Viberoptix.
Jenny Lennon, Managing Director of Hyperfast Networks said: “Supporting rural communities is fundamental to our purpose.
“Project gigabit enables us to extend highspeed, dependable connectivity to thousands of more homes and businesses across the north of Ireland, unlocking new opportunities for growth and full participation in the digital economy.
Clement McArdle can now communicate with the world… and his family.
“It is brilliant to see Clement and his wife already feeling the difference and we look forward to further enhancing connectivity, driving innovation and supporting a more regionally balanced and competitive economy through the successful delivery of project Gigabit.”
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: “Fast and reliable broadband is essential to how people live and work today, underpinning economic development, supporting access to services and helping communities stay connected.
“The completion of phase one of Project Gigabit, with the first 1,593 premises now connected to full fibre broadband, is an important milestone and shows the programme delivering real benefits on the ground for households and businesses.
“By extending high speed broadband to more than 9,000 premises, particularly in rural areas, this investment is helping to spread social and economic opportunity across the north.”
Clement McArdle added: “If you are living in the country with no mobile signal, internet access really matters and now we have been connected, we feel so much more at ease living where we do. We can spend more valuable time video calling our children and enjoying live sports and streaming services, basic things that were virtually impossible before.
“The changes have been unbelievable, we love living where we do and now, we don’t feel cut off anymore. We are able to enjoy our retirement in the place we call home and still access the world around us, just as fast as those in the city can.”
UK Telecoms Minister, Liz Lloyd, said: “Reliable connectivity shouldn’t be determined by your postcode. Powered by the UK Government, Project Gigabit NI is ushering more rural communities into the digital era, enabling people to enjoy uninterrupted streaming, seize new opportunities and grow businesses.
“Since July 2024, we’ve delivered gigabit connectivity to over 268,100 premises across the UK. This latest milestone is proof that our investment is delivering results, empowering people to get on with their day instead of waiting for their page to refresh.”
1. The figure of 268,100 premises receiving gigabit-capable broadband coverage as a result of Building Digital UK (BDUK) subsidy is an estimate based on BDUK Delivery Performance Quarterly covering 1 July 2024 to 31 December 2025. This information is published quarterly here.
2. It is estimated 94% of premises in Northern Ireland have access to gigabit-capable broadband – compared to 86% in Britain and 88% in the rest of Ireland. Building on this, Project Gigabit will extend this level of digital capacity to over 9,000 premises, further improving broadband infrastructure in predominantly rural areas.
South Eastern HSC Trust honours international nursing families
The South Eastern Trust is marking International Nurses Day 2026 by celebrating the dedication and contribution of its Nursing workforce, including staff who travelled from the Philippines more than 20 years ago to begin new lives and careers in Northern Ireland.
A Trust spokesperson said that among those being recognised are husband and wife, Rommel and Marissa Tiongson, who both work in the Theatres Department at the Ulster Hospital and whose son now also works within the Trust as a Radiographer, highlighting a remarkable family commitment to Health and Social Care.
Rommel is a Theatres Senior Staff Nurse and Marissa is an Anaesthetic Nurse.
Also among those being recognised this International Nurses Day are Renal Unit Staff Nurse, Aileen Ursolino and Deputy Charge Nurse, Chris Ganacias, who also came to Northern Ireland from the Philippines more than two decades ago and have built long and successful careers within the Trust.
Rommel first arrived in Northern Ireland in 2004 after working as a Nurse in the Philippines.
The couple initially arrived in Northern Ireland as part of a group of international Nurses who supported one another as they settled into a new country, culture and healthcare system.
Over time, their families joined them and many of those early colleagues remain lifelong friends including Chris and Aileen.
Aileen joined the Trust in 2004 after deciding to move to Northern Ireland to join her boyfriend, who was already working in the Royal Victoria Hospital.
She initially worked in Plastics for three years before moving to the Renal Unit at the Ulster Hospital, where she has remained ever since.
Chris was working as a Nurse in the Philippines for nine years before arriving in Northern Ireland in 2004. After spending two and a half years in another department in the Trust, Chris joined the Renal Unit, where he remains today.
Reflecting on his career, Rommel said: “My journey in the Ulster Hospital started around 2004. I came from the Philippines after securing a job opportunity following an interview. At that time, I joined what was one of the later groups of International Nurses coming to Belfast. I started in Ward 9, a busy respiratory ward in the Ulster Hospital, which was very challenging because patients could be extremely unwell.
“After three years I moved to a new unit where I stayed for almost seven years and eventually I joined Theatres, where I have now worked for more than nine years.”
Rommel said the move into Theatres has been a particularly rewarding part of his career, “I really love working in Theatres. You are part of a Multi-Disciplinary Team including Surgeons, Anaesthetists and Nurses where every day is different. You can be involved in orthopaedics, plastics, urology, general surgery and emergency cases. The variety is what makes it so enjoyable.”
Rommel also highlighted the importance of the Trust in supporting his family life and career progression, “My wife works here as an Anaesthetic Nurse as well and our son is now a Radiographer in the Ulster Hospital.
Rommel said: “The Theatre Department has been very supportive in terms of work-life balance, scheduling and annual leave, which has been very important for our family.”
Marissa highlighted her journey and shared how meaningful it has been to build a life and career in Northern Ireland, “I started out as an Auxiliary Nurse and progressed to be an Anaesthetic Nurse through training.
She added that working in the same department as her husband has been a unique experience, even though their shifts rarely overlap. She said: “It is special to both work in Theatres, but because we work opposite shifts, days and nights, we do not actually meet on duty.
“We understand each other’s work life, but we also each have our own routines within the department. It works really well for our family life.”
Marissa said the hospital quickly became more than just a workplace, “It became like a second family. The support from colleagues, managers and the wider Multi-Disciplinary Team made a huge difference when we first arrived, and that sense of teamwork has never left.”
Aileen reflected on her journey to Northern Ireland adding: “I love working in the Renal Unit because of the patients. You establish a rapport with them because they come here three times a week. You become part of their family, build trust and share milestones together during their journey.
“Working in the Trust gave me a lot of opportunities and allowed me to broaden my horizons as a Nursing professional and grow professionally. Working in the Ulster Hospital has been a wonderful opportunity for me to stay here and continue to develop my career.”
Chris detailed why he travelled to Northern Ireland, saying: “I had previous experience working in a haemodialysis unit back in the Philippines. I have now worked in the Renal Unit for 22 years and I absolutely love it.”
Chris said one of the most rewarding aspects of Renal Nursing is the close relationship formed with patients and families over time, “In the Renal Unit, you see patients frequently and get to know them day in, day out. They really do become part of the family. Delivering high-quality, compassionate care is extremely important to us.
“The Trust has fully supported us and it has been a very rewarding and satisfying role. You bond not only with the patients, but also with their families and you go on that journey with them.
“The most rewarding part is when they receive a transplant and get a second chance at life. Knowing you played a part in helping them reach that point is incredibly special.”
Chris also reflected on the lifelong friendships formed after arriving in Northern Ireland, “I have loved every part of coming to Northern Ireland and making new friends. Rommel is a very good friend. We arrived around the same time, met in the Renal Unit and shared a house together with eight other people. We have remained friends ever since and that is truly special.”
Amplify Young People At The Patrician Youth Centre Captures Community Spirit Through Photography Project
Participants from the Amplify programme in partnership with Patrician Youth Centre and Lecale Trinity Grammar, recently took part in a community, photography project led by local photographer Jim Masson, giving young people the opportunity to develop new skills while capturing images around the town.
Throughout the project, participants learned how to use cameras safely and responsibly, explored the importance of exposure and composition, and discussed the need to always seek permission before photographing members of the public.
Lecale Trinity Grammar students pictured during their visit to ASDA Downpatrick as part of the Amplify programme in partnership with the Pqtrician Youth Centre.
Reflecting on the experience, one young person said: “We were happy to see ASDA rebuilding a new store after the floods because the temporary store doesn’t have the same wide range to offer. The store should be complete by Spring 2026.
Another participant said: “It was just really nice to be part of a photography project and meeting people out and about. But it was clear the general public are excited to see ASDA bouncing back from the terrrible floods in 2023..”
Three of the pupils pose for a photo in the aisle at ASDA Downpatrick.
A third participant added: “Out with the old and in with the new. This is an exciting time for Downpatrick and itmaybe even will create more jobs than in the previous store.”
A fourth young person involved in the project said the experience had helped build confidence and encouraged them to look at their local community in a different way, while also highlighting the optimism many residents feel about the town’s future recovery and regeneration.
The pupils on this special programme embracing looking at their community through the eye of the camera had two sessions with Jim Masson, Downpatrick-based photographer to get them up to speed.
A scene photo of the cleared ASDA Downpatrick site.
The first session involved familiarisation with working with digital cameras. Photographer Jim Masson said: “It was a pleasure to introduce the pupils to photography. It’s a huge subject and we spent the first session familiarising with the basic controls on the camera that each pupil had.
“Once we had done that, we then looked at the fundamentals of composure and how to take a good photo. The pupils were very enthusiastic and creative and enjoyed the session.
“We then went on a visit on a later day to the temporary ASDA store in Downpatrick and were guided round by a manager. The pupils took some product and scene shots inside and then went up on a platform to overlook the cleared site ready to be built on.
“Overall the pupils learned that photography is about using a camera, often about social people skills, and down the line they may probably be introduced to editing software to enhance their photo presentations.
“It was a pleasure working with them all, and I hope they learned something useful from the two short sessions.”
Celtic Bhoys Defender Eamon Gargan breaks leg against Kelvin Old Boys
The NAFL,
Division 2A League Match,
Venue: Ballyhornan 3G Pitch, 9 5 26,
Final Score: Celtic Bhoys 1 0 Kelvin Old Bhoys (match abandoned due to injury).
As the season is hurtling to a close, The Kevin OB came to Ballyhornan to face Celtic Bhoys. The OBs were pushing for promotion and needed the 3 points to have a chance of getting into the first division writes Jim Masson.
However, as the match progressed into the second half, Celtic Bhoys defender Eamon Gargan broke his leg in a tackle and was taken to hospital in an ambulance.
This was a very unfortunate incident at the end of the football season when many players were looking forward to the summer holidays.
Chris Teggart, Celtic Bhoys’ co-manager said: “This was the second last game for our team this season and it was very unfortunate that Eamon Gargan received two breaks in his leg from a heavy tackle. He has already received surgery and his injury will take time to heel.
“Everyone in the club wishes Eamon a speedy recovery.
“We hope to see him back in action again next season. He is a great defender and has played his part in the team’s success this year. Celtic Bhoys got off to a slow start this season losing 2 of their first 3 games but then we won 14 in a row which kept us up there.”
For the first 20 minutes of the match, the teams cancelled each other out with Celtic making some excellent runs at the visitors’ goal and the OBs defending solidly. It was a case of the immovable object against the irresistible force.
With a strong wind blowing down the pitch behind Celtic, ball control was very difficult but they did forage ahead and made some great crosses.
10 minutes in and Sean Ferris hit a cracker of a volley low fromn 40 yards but it was just held by keeper Stephen Cairnduff.
Then in an attack by the OBs, their players had three kicks close in at the home goal and twice the defenders blocked the shots and Nathan Curran blocked the third denying them a goal.
The Celtic front line of Sean Ferris, Sean McMahon and Shaun Megahey was connecting well. And in midfield Jordan Curran was battling for possession and working hard feeding balls upfield. A cross into the OB box almost saw McMahon open the scoring hitting just a fraction wide.
Celtic Bhoys settled into the game against Kelvin Old Bhoys and had several chances in the later stages of the first half.
But the OB were there for the points and a charge at the Celtic goal looke dlike a serious goal opportunity were it not for the safe hands of Nathan Curran. Then the OBs had another 3 kicks at the Celtic goal but each time they were blocke
On 35 minutes Gerdie Collins hit a volley on target and it rebounded off the goalkeeper and as he ran in he connected again with the rebound and made sure the second time opening the scoring for Celtic.
Celtic seemed to go up a gear and Sean Ferris crossed to Shaun McGahey in the OB box but his strike was just over the top bar.
Just before flaf-time, Eamon Gargan made a great cross to Megahey in the box who turned sharply and hit but he went wide of the OB goal.
Then on a quick break OB Darren Smyth reached the Celtic goal and close in hit the ball over the top bar missing the chance to equalise at a crucial stage in the match.
Into the second half early on Sean McMahon hit a lovely curling ball but it just went wide of the OB back post. Celtic were turning up the pressure at this point.
Celtic Bhoys defender Eamon Gargan receives the award of Player of the match from Martin Sloan, Vice Chair of the Junior Shield selection committee in 2025.
And minutes later Megahey again hit over the OB top bar. Then just when it looked as though Celtic were pressing for goal number two, Celtic full back Eamon Gargan was involved in a tackle with an OB player and crumpled to the ground.
The contact with the players boot could be heard across the pitch as it struck his shinpad. Eamon’s leg was broken and an ambulance was called to take him to hospital.
The match was subsequently abandoned and the points were awarded to Celtic Bhoys.
Wishing Eamon Gargan a speedy recovery!
Celtic Bhoys: 1 Nathan Curran (GK) 3 Eamon Gargan 4 Jordan Deegan 5 Caoimhin Groves 6 Gerard Collins 7 Jordan Curran 8 Patrick Ferris 9 Sean Ferris 10 Sean McMahon 12 Shaun Megahey. Subs: 14 Niks Aleksejevs 15 Jack Zych 16 Ryan Doran.
Kelvin Old Boys: 1 Stephen Cairnduff (GK) 2 Bradley White 3 Leon Skillen 4 Stephen Hislop 5 Andrew Logan 6 Dean Sproule 7 Joshua McDowell 8 Ryan Jackson 9 Carson Elliot 10 Brandon Masson 11 Darren Smyth. Subs: DFylan Rodgers 14 Mark Gorman 15 William Gill.
Community Consultation Invitation To The Grove, Downpatrick
Newry Mourne and Down District Council invites residents, community groups, schools, and colleges to take part in shaping the future of The Grove in Downpatrick.
The Council has secured PEACEPLUS funding to support the future development of The Grove as a shared and welcoming space for everyone in the community.
A council spokesperson said: “This investment will help explore how The Grove can be revitalised and used in ways that encourage greater community connection, inclusion, and positive shared use.
Planting in the Grove in Downpatrick. NMD Council has received PeacePlus funding to help upgrade The Grove and invites community groups, organisations and residents to a consultation meeting in the St Patrick Centre on Tuesday 12th May. (See details below).
“This consultation is an opportunity for local people to help influence how The Grove could develop in the future. Through community-led discussion and engagement, the project will consider how the space can better support local needs, encourage interaction between different groups, and provide opportunities for inclusive activities and events.
“We want to hear from residents and organisations across Downpatrick about how The Grove can become a more vibrant, accessible and valued community space for all.
By getting involved, you can help shape a future vision for The Grove that reflects local priorities, supports stronger community relationships, and creates a space that is welcoming, shared and well used by everyone.
Saint Patrick Centre Thursday 14 May 2026 Light refreshments from 5:30pm Consultation begins promptly at 6:00pm
Sinn Féin South Down MLA Cathy Mason has welcomed the allocation of funding to carry out essential improvement works at Dundrum Playing Fields.
Speaking following confirmation that funding has been allocated to upgrade the soccer pitch, the South Down MLA said: “This is very welcome progress for Dundrum and the many local clubs, schools, and families who rely on these facilities throughout the year.
Cathy Mason MLA welcomes funding for Dundrum play area.
“I welcome the decision to allocate funding towards essential works to the soccer pitch, which has been unplayable for significant periods due to poor drainage and surface conditions.
“These works, including drainage and levelling improvements, are vital to address health and safety concerns and restore the pitch to a safe and playable standard for everyone who uses it.
“Sport and recreational facilities are at the heart of our communities. Ensuring pitches are safe, accessible and fit for purpose is essential not only for local clubs and schools, but also for supporting health, wellbeing and community participation.
“Sinn Féin will continue working to secure investment in local facilities and ensure communities like Dundrum receive the support they deserve.”
Teams battled it out for the honours in the DYFL matches at Robert Adams Park in Crossgar
This was the last weekend of soccer for the Downpatrick Youth Football League and through Friday and Saturday teams battled for the silver in excellent weather conditions writes Jim Masson.
On Friday 8th May Celtic Bhoys U12 squad faced Ballynahinch Olympic Blues in a tight match that looked as though it was going to go to penalties given both teams were on form.
Celtic started off strongly but after five minutes Ballynahinch came back into the game well and play went to and fro.
There was a good charge from Celtic and a shot just went wide of the left hand post. Then a Celtic defender made a great intervention as a Ballynahinch forward almost got the ball over the line.
But it was Ballynahinch who opened the scoring on ten minutes with an excellent goal giving the keeper no chance.
The second half started with the Celtic right winger almost hammering in a ball to the top of the net but it went just over. Celtic piled on the pressure but Ballynahinch held up well.
The a low shot from Celtic crept past the keepers feet over the line to equalise.
Celtic started to play more attacking football and carved out another two goals putting them in the driving seat.
Ballynahinch Olympic Blues goalkeeper Kian won the Player of the Match award.
Final score: Celtic Bhoys 3 1 Ballynahinch Olympic Blues.
***
Following this match, Downpatrick U14s faced Ardglass FC U14s in what was going to be another close encounter.
Ardglass were pressing from the whistle and a shot by the Ardglass centre was just held by the Ballynahinch keeper.
The seasiders won a few corners and kept up the pressure and were goal-less for 23 minutes until their centre forward tapped the ball in to put them in the lead.
Ardglass U14s beat Downpatrick in a close battle for the cup.
Ballynahinch had defended well but their keeper was making some good saves.
Ardglass scored from a corner putting them 2 ahead, but Ballynahinch came back fighting. Ardglass keeper Sophia made a great reflex save.
As the second half progressed, Downpatrick started to attack more looking dangerous at times but Ardglass were not giving up and got in a number of useful challenges to the Downpatrick goal.
Then Downpatrick scored with a well-hit low shot to the right hand post and then it was match on as Downpatrick pressed on for an equaliser that would at least force penalties and give them a chance of the cup.
But the referee blew his whistle and it was Ardglsss who were celebrating but it was a tight match at times and could have gone either way.
Karl from Downpatrick FC U14s won the Player of the Match.
The U13 girls’ final between Newcastle FC and Kilmore Rec was another close affair with both teams giving their all and playing some great football.
It was Newcastle that took the initiative early and make several runs at the Kilmore goal. One shot came bouncing off the Kilmore posts… a let off Kilmore.
The Kilmore goal keeper made an excellent save as Newcastle closed in.
The KIlmore started to push back and a kick from the halfway line forced the Newcastle keeper into an error and a corner was awarded.
Newcastle U13 girls beat Kilmore Rec on penalties to win the cup.
But Newcastle bounced back and the Kilmore keeper was forced to make a crucial save. On 13 minutes, a Kilmore forward chipper over the heads of the defenders creating a scoring opportunity but had to settle for a corner.
Then on 15 minutes, Kiimore scored against the run of play and held on to their narrow lead. But Newcastle equalised and neither side could score the killer goal despite attempts by both side sand the match then went to penalties.
Kilmore missed 4 penalties in a row and Newcastle had bagged two so the eighth kick of the match secured a win for Newcastle on their fourth kick and the celebrations commenced.
Clodagh from KIlmore U14s won the Player of the Match award.
***
On Saturday morning, the U7s who normally play at Saintfield Leisure Centre enjoiyed. a football festival before the U13 girls cup final and they literally had a ball!
Public Invited to Have Their Say for Kilkeel Lower Square and River Walk Environmental Improvement Scheme
Newry Mourne and Down District Council is inviting residents, businesses and visitors to take part in a public consultation on plans to improve Kilkeel’s Lower Square and River Walk.
The aim is to make this area more welcoming and easier to use. The improvements focus on the public space from the Lower Square car park along the River Walk path to the Rooney Road Bridge entrance.
The project timetable will be confirmed in early 2027. This depends on planning approval and the outcome of funding applications.
An artists impression of a serene river walk. Newry Mourne and Down District Council are to consult widely on the proposal to upgrade the River Walk area in KIlkeel.
The proposed works include:
upgrading the existing public toilets
improving the car park (lighting and planting) and nearby footways
cleaning the river
replacing the pedestrian footbridge
improving the River Walk path (surface, lighting and access)
upgrading the play park
Inviting residents and stakeholders to have their say on the proposals, Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said: “This is an important opportunity for the local community to help shape the future of Kilkeel’s Lower Square and River Walk.
“Please tell us what you think and share any ideas or concerns. Your feedback will help us refine the plans before they are submitted for planning approval.”
You can view the concept proposals and share your views online from Monday 18 May to Monday 1 June 2026.
The proposals will also be on display at the Nautilus Centre during the same period and comment sheets will be available for anyone wishing to leave feedback.
In addition, on Wednesday 27 May, the scheme consultants and Council staff will be on hand to speak with in person from 4–7pm at the Nautilus Centre.
£2M investment for more integrated care made by the South Eastern HSC Trust at Crossgar Health Centre
Crossgar sees a £2 million extension opened at the South Eastern Trust’s Crossgar Health Centre, bringing GP services together with Treatment Room and Multi-Disciplinary Team services under one roof on the Health Centre site.
The development sees staff previously based at Crossgar Clinic now co-located within Crossgar Health Centre alongside GPs, Dr Trainor, Dr Smyth and Dr Wylie, as well as Physiotherapists, District Nurses, Social Workers, Treatment Room Nurses and the Practice Nurse.
Dr Edward Wylie (GP, Crossgar HC), Joanne Kelly (Community Nursing Sister), Dr Anna-Marie Trainor (GP, Crossgar HC), Roisin Coulter, (Chief Executive, South Eastern Trust), Allison Hamilton (Practice Manager, Crossgar HC) and Jonathan Bradshaw (Asst. Director of Estates, South Eastern Trust). (Photos courtesy of the SEHSCT.)
The new environment will support a more joined-up, multi-disciplinary approach to patient care and make it easier for local people to access a range of primary and community care services in one place.
The project includes a new 12-room, two-storey extension, along with refurbishment of parts of the existing building, creating a modern, fit-for-purpose environment designed to support care delivery now and into the future.
Capacity within the Practice has also been significantly enhanced, with improved accommodation for GP training, expanded clinical space for Practice Nurses and upgraded staff facilities.
Roisin Coulter with staff from Crossgar Health Centre, SPPG and South Eastern Trust at the opening.
Together, these improvements will support the delivery of high-quality care while providing a better experience for both patients and staff.
South Eastern Trust, Chief Executive, Roisin Coulter said: “I am delighted to see the completion and opening of this significant extension at Crossgar Health Centre.
“This investment brings key services together under one roof, improving the experience for patients and supporting more integrated, team-based working.”
“It also provides modern, high-quality facilities for our staff, helping us to continue delivering safe, effective and person-centred care now and into the future.”
Exterior of Crossgar Health Centre with the extension.
Roisin Coulter added: “I would like to thank the Estates Team, Design Team and Contractors, J P & S Construction, who have worked with the services to deliver the extension and refurbishment of Crossgar Health Centre and provide the improved clinical accommodation and capacity.
“Throughout the project, clinical services have remained live with the Project Team working collectively to reduce disruption and the impact on the services.
“The project has also improved the buildings energy efficiency with building fabric enhancements and upgrades to the lighting and heating systems helping support the Trusts sustainability goals.”
South Eastern Trust, Director of Primary Care and Older People, Veronica Cleland added: “This is a wonderful modern facility right in the heart of the community that will benefit both staff and patients.
“Having our Multi-Disciplinary Teams working together in one location makes a real difference, enabling better communication, stronger teamwork and improved outcomes for our patients.
“It also creates a more supportive and efficient working environment for staff, ensuring we can continue to meet the growing needs of the local community.”
A spacious interior.
Practice Manager, Allison Hamilton, said: “This £2m investment marks a significant milestone for The Surgery and for our local community.
“The new Crossgar Health Centre brings together GP services, a modern treatment room and the MDT all under one roof, enabling more joined up, patient cantered care.
“I would like to sincerely thank everyone involved in delivering this project and to our patients and staff for their patience and understanding throughout the process. We look forward to welcoming patients through the door.”
Department of Health, Programme Director for the Primary Care Infrastructure Development (PCID) Programme, Martin Hayes, also commented saying: “Investment in GP premises remains a key priority for the Department of Health, helping practices to expand capacity and improve the environments in which care is delivered.
“Over the past five years, more than £8m has been invested across the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust area to support developments like this.
“I was pleased to visit Crossgar Health Centre and see first-hand the positive impact the new accommodation is already having for patients and staff.”
Saint Patrick Centre
Thursday 14 May 2026
Light refreshments from 5:30pm
Consultation begins promptly at 6:00pm
