NMD Council Makes Major Playpark Investment

Council Continues Major Investment in Play Parks Across the District

Newry Mourne and Down District Council is continuing with its investment programme to refurbish and enhance play parks across the district, with a series of major upgrades now completed as part of its ongoing Play Strategy 2024–2029.

The most recent phase of works has delivered improved facilities at Bishopscourt in Ballyhornan, Derrybeg in Newry and Ardross and Rathview in Crossmaglen, providing modern, inclusive and accessible play spaces for local communities.

(l-r Director of Active and Healthy Communities, NMDDC, Andrew Patterson; Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell; Cllr Jill Truesdale and Declan Crilly, Head of Outdoor Leisure at the official opening of Islands Park Play Park in Newcastle. (Photos courtesy of NMDDC).

These improvements build on earlier completed projects at Conway Park in Mullaghbawn, Village Green in Belleeks, Granite View in Saval, Scrogg Road in Kilkeel and Seaview in Ardglass, which were delivered in previous phases of the programme.

Together, these investments form part of the Council’s commitment to upgrading 16 play parks across the district, ensuring high-quality, safe and engaging outdoor spaces for children and families.

(l-r) Head of Outdoor Leisure, Declan Crilly, Outdoor Leisure Officer Damian Morgan, Newry, Mourne and Down District Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell, Cllr Aurla King and Director of Active and Healthy Communities, Andrew Patterson, at Bishop’s Gate play park at Ballyhornan.

The upgraded parks feature a wide range of modern play equipment designed to support physical activity, creativity and social interaction. Each site has been developed as a barrier-free and inclusive environment, enabling children of all abilities to play together and enjoy shared outdoor experiences.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, said: “We are delighted to see these upgraded play parks now open to the public.

(l-r) Marking the official opening of Rathview playpark in Crossmaglen is Andrew Patterson, Director of Active and Healthy Communities, NMDDC, Cllr Mickey Larkin, Cllr Martin Hearty and Cllr Pete Byrne.
(l-r) Conor Haughey, Assistant Director, Healthy Living, NMDDC; Gerard McKeever, NMDDC Outdoor Leisure Officer; Cllr Aidan Mallon; NMDDC Vice Chairperson Cllr Geraldine Kearns, Andrew Patterson, Director of Active and Healthy Communities and Declan Crilly, Head of Outdoor Leisure, at the recently refurbished playpark in Derrybeg, Newry.

“This investment demonstrates our ongoing commitment to improving facilities that support the health and well-being of residents across our district.

“By working closely with local communities, we have delivered high-quality, accessible play spaces that meet local needs and will provide long-lasting benefits for families for years to come.”

(l-r) Ava Boyle (6), Daisy O’Neill (6) and Sadie O’Neill (9) enjoying the new play features at Rathview Play Park.

The Council’s Play Strategy 2024–2029 recognises the importance of play as a fundamental part of children’s development, supporting physical, social and emotional wellbeing while also providing opportunities for enjoyment and creativity.

This ongoing programme is being delivered in line with the strategy, which targets improvements based on identified need, accessibility and play value.

Over the next two years, further investment will continue for the upgrading of play facilities across the district, reinforcing the Council’s long-term commitment to delivering safe, inclusive and high-quality spaces for children and families in Newry Mourne and Down.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell with Cllr Jill Truesdale at Kilkeel’s Scrogg Road play park, which was opened in the previous phase of play park refurbishments.
Karson McKinley (6) having fun on the bridge in Islands Park, Newcastle.
Council Chair Cllr Philip Campbell tries out a zip line.
(l-r) Opening the Ardross Playpark are Slieve Gullion Councillors Mickey Larkin, Pete Byrne and Martin Hearty.

SDLP Welcomes Fisheries Consultation

SDLP welcomes the consultation on the fisheries management plan

SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath and former Downpatrick area Councillor Dermot Curran have welcomed the launch of the consultation on the Draft Northern Ireland Non-Quota Shellfish Fisheries Management Plan, urging fishermen and coastal communities to take part and help shape its outcome.

Fishermen who fish for brown crab, lobsters and scallops are being encouraged to take part in the consultation. Given that the Isle of Man has curtailed scallop fishing in its area for Northern Ireland vessels, it is important to assess how this will affect NI scallopers.

Colin McGrath MLA said this is a critical moment for the future of sustainable fishing locally.

He added: “Our fishing industry is central to the identity and economy of coastal communities like South Down.

Colin McGrath MLA and former councillor Dermot Curran have welcomed the fisheries’ consultation but have cautioned that the way forward is sustainable practice in the fishing industry.

“This consultation gives those who know our waters best a real opportunity to influence how they are managed into the future. It is vital that people engage and make their voices heard.”

Dermot Curran stressed the importance of ensuring the plan reflects the realities facing those working in the sector. He said: “Any management plan must be practical and fair.

“That means listening directly to fishermen and ensuring their experience helps shape the final decisions. Their livelihoods depend on getting this right.”

Both highlighted the urgent need to review and modernise licensing arrangements, particularly in areas such as Strangford Lough.

“There has been longstanding concern around how licences are allocated and managed,” added Mr McGrath. “This consultation must address those issues and deliver a system that is transparent, fair and fit for purpose.”

They also emphasised the need to strike the right balance between environmental sustainability and supporting local livelihoods.

“This is about protecting our marine environment while also sustaining the families and communities who rely on it,” Mr Curran said.

Colin McGrath MLA and Dermot Curran are encouraging all fishing stakeholders to participate in the consultation process and help shape a sustainable and fair future for Northern Ireland’s fishing industry.

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Downpatrick Art Society Opens 56th Exhibition

The Grove Gallery in St Patrick Centre Hosts the 56th exhibition for the Downpatrick Art Society

The 56th exhibition of works by members of the Downpatrick Arts Society opens on Saturday 2nd May 2026 to the public.

The exhibition provides a wide range of paintings from landscapes, portraits, still life, and a wide range of other styles showing the best of local talent in the Downpatrick area.

Maureen Lowe, group chairperson, said: “Altogether, there are over 100 works in the exhibition that are all up for sale. They are painted in either oils, acrylics, watercolours, pastels and line drawings revealing the wide range of talented artists.

Maureen Lowe, Chairperson of the Downpatrick Arts Society, pictured with Wendy Cromie, Exhibition Secretary as they hang paintings up for their exhibition in The Grove Gallery in the St Patrick Centre in Downpatrick which will run for the month of May.
(Photos: JimMasson/DownNews©).

“There are scenes from the Mournes, seascapes, and from local towns and villages across Down and some from scenes where members had painted while on holiday on visits in other parts of Ireland.

“The art group meets for four outdoor sessions through the summer and has monthly sessions from September onwards with a guest mentor each month. It is quite a dedicated and lively group who just love art.

(l-r) Marian Prior, Patricia McCormick, Patricia Sloan, Mairead Patton, Wendy Cromie, Exhibition Secretary, and Maureen Lowe, Chairperson of the Downpatrick Art Society.

“We are delighted that Olive Davison is showing some of her paintings in the exhibition. Olive is a long-standing member and has landscape paintings showing in the Down Museum.

“The exhibition in the Grove Gallery in the St Patrick Centre will run through the month of May and can be seen during opening hours from 9-5pm Monday to Saturday free of charge.

“Everyone is very welcome to attend,” added Maureen Lowe.

Council Artisan Markets Promote Local Talent

Council’s Artisan Markets Continue to Champion Local Talent Across the District

Residents and visitors are being encouraged to shop local and support talented makers and producers at the popular Artisan Markets hosted by Newry Mourne and Down District Council.

Artisan Markets play an important role in supporting the local economy, promoting sustainability and celebrating the rich food and craft heritage of the district.

Taking place from March to December across three vibrant locations, Downpatrick, Newcastle and Warrenpoint, the markets showcase the very best in handcrafted goods, artisan food and unique local products.

Visitors can look forward to a refreshed line-up of traders, featuring a mix of new talent alongside familiar faces, ensuring there is always something different to discover at each market.

Over the coming months, the Council will also shine a spotlight on local traders, celebrating their stories, skills and the passion behind their products.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said: “Our Artisan Markets are a fantastic showcase of the creativity and talent that exists across our district.

“They provide a valuable platform for local makers and producers to sell their goods, while also encouraging residents and visitors to support small businesses and shop local.

Freshly baked breads at the local markets supported by Newry Mourne and Down District Council.

Councillor Campbell added: “The introduction of new traders alongside returning favourites, ensures a vibrant and ever-changing experience and we look forward to shining a spotlight on these businesses in the months ahead.”

In Newcastle, the Artisan Market takes place on the first Saturday of each month and will be moving to a new location at the event space to the rear of the Newcastle Centre.

Just a very short distance from the promenade, it offers the perfect opportunity for those enjoying a seaside walk to browse stalls, sample local produce and soak up the lively coastal atmosphere.

In Downpatrick, the market is held on the third Saturday of each month in St Patrick’s Square, right in the heart of the town.

With its strong town-centre feel, it creates a vibrant hub where visitors can shop, meet friends and enjoy a welcoming mix of artisan traders.

Meanwhile, in Warrenpoint, the Artisan Market takes place on the fourth Saturday of each month in the scenic Warrenpoint Municipal Park.

Surrounded by greenery and coastal views, the park setting offers a relaxed environment, ideal for browsing at a slower pace and enjoying a day out.

Across all locations, there will be a lively programme of live music and family-friendly activities, adding to the overall market experience.

Markets typically trade from 11.00am to 3.00pm, with extended hours until 4.00pm during peak seasonal periods.

For more information on trading opportunities or upcoming market dates, visit the Council’s website:

www.newrymournedown.org/artisan-markets

Rugby Legends Tackle Scrumcious Line Up

Rugby Legends Tackle Scrumcious Line Up in Hillsborough

Three rugby legends joined regulars at The Plough in Hillsborough this week to sample the May Bank Holiday menu and hospitality.  Ireland’s Rory Best, England’s David Flatman and Wales’s Dan Biggar, now also established rugby pundits, took a break from promotional filming in the area to visit NI’s current Pub of the Year.

Ireland’s Rory Best, England’s David Flatman and Wales’s Dan Biggar at the Plough in Hillsborough.

Rory Best said: “I’ve been a regular visitor to The Plough over a number of years so I thought I would take the opportunity to invite David and Dan to sample some of the excellent food and hospitality. 

The boys looked like they could do with a bit of a feed and we weren’t disappointed, and it was great to be back.”

With a big weekend of sport ahead, The Plough has created a special The Snug in Bloom theme this Sunday (3rd May) with live music, dinner & entertainment.  More details and booking options are available at:

www.theploughhillsborough.co.uk

Take A Lead And Keep Your Dog On A Lead

NI Water asks dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead in the countryside

NI Water is appealing to the public to take the lead when exercising their dogs at its beauty spots, as warmer weather returns and visitor numbers increase.

A spokesperson said that Spring is a particularly sensitive time in the countryside, with ground‑nesting birds, cattle with young calves, and sheep and lambs all vulnerable if dogs are allowed to run off the lead.

NI Water is also reminding dog owners that, in certain circumstances, failing to keep dogs under control can result in enforcement action, including fines of up to £1,000 if cases are brought before the courts.

Therefore, the message is clear – keep your dog on the lead whatever their breed.

Take the lead and keep your dog on a lead in the countryside especially during the nesting and lambing season. (Photo courtesy of NI Water.)

NI Water catchment officer Rebecca Allen said: “NI Water is pleased to welcome visitors to its publicly accessible sites. Many of the areas under NI Water’s care – including Silent Valley in the Mourne Mountains and the Garron Plateau in County Antrim – are home to ground‑nesting birds, important habitats, and vital drinking water catchments.

“These landscapes also support local farmers, and NI Water is therefore asking all visitors to enjoy these special places responsibly. That means keep your dog on the lead whatever their breed.

“We know that dogs are much‑loved companions and, in many cases, very well trained.

“However, in open countryside their natural instincts can take over, and even the most obedient dog will be tempted to chase livestock or explore wildlife‑sensitive areas if off the lead.

“These incidents are deeply distressing for livestock, damaging for flocks, and devastating for farmers whose livelihoods depend on the land.

“We are therefore urging people to keep dogs under close control, stick to paths where possible, clean up after their pets, and give wildlife and livestock plenty of space during the spring and summer months. Keeping dogs under control helps everyone to use and enjoy these shared, special places.”

NI Water thanks all our visitors who keep their dogs on leads when enjoying the countryside.

Buskfest Stage Awaits Buskers Across Down

Call out for Down buskers to come along and be in with a chance to win a share of the £4,500 prize pot

Buskers of all abilities from right across Down are being invited to sign up as Banbridge prepares for the return of its annual music festival, Buskfest, on Saturday 20th June 2026. 

Shining a spotlight on a wealth of talent, from solo acts to groups, and with the introduction of a new youth category to enable younger performers to have their moment to shine, both emerging and seasoned artists will join in this celebration of live music and compete for a chance to win a share of this year’s increased prize pot which now stands at a fantastic total of £4,500.   

Buskfest, now in its 22nd year invites all buskers to showcase their talents to hundreds of spectators each year.

The music fest offers a unique platform for performers to hone their craft and connect new audiences to their artistry with Banbridge town centre set to transform into a vibrant stage on the day. 

(l-r) Ralph McLean (BBC Radio Ulster), Daniel Coulter, Luke Bell and Páidí Muldoon (last year’s winners, 4AM Club), Chris Nelmes (The Boulevard Banbridge), and Alderman Stephen Moutray, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.

It includes singers and musicians to street entertainers, and enthusiastic performers will fill the town’s streets ensuring every corner is brought to life.  

With family entertainment including face painting and puppet shows, the artisan market also pays a welcome return to the town centre. Taking place from12-5pm and located at Bridge and Scarva Streets, there will be a range of food and handcrafted goods all showcasing local businesses.  

The excitement and animation will continue into the evening with a prize-giving and concert in Banbridge town centre, recognising the day’s top performers and the spectrum of talent on display. 

Tasked with adjudicating what promises to be a fiercely contested competition are a panel of 12 judges including BBC Radio Ulster presenter Ralph McLean. 

Commenting on the event Ralph said: “Buskfest is one of the highlights in both the Banbridge and local music calendar. 

“No matter what side of the performance you’re on, the streets are immersed in an unmatched environment of musical creativity and community spirit, making it a fantastic day out for all.  

“It also provides a particularly important platform for emerging local talent, introducing hundreds of individuals to their work.

“With awards across an array of categories, the festival celebrates talent of all kinds, recognising the outstanding array of performers we have right here at home.” 

One of last year’s winners, Luke Bell of the 4AM Club spoke about the crucial platform the event provides, and said: “I know firsthand just how special an experience Buskfest can be for any artist. 

“Music as a medium brings both peers and the wider community together. Winning last year gave us a real boost and showed us that people continue to connect with our music and enjoy what we do.

“Even if you’re not competing, but just starting out, it gives you an amazing opportunity to expand your audience and gain some experience, so I’d encourage any musician to sign up.” 

Registration to participate is now open at:

www.buskfest.com  and will close on the 19th June at 4pm. 

The day’s busking events are set to commence at 2.00pm and continue into the evening with the prize giving at 5pm, and the stage bursting to life with lively performances until 8.30p

For more information and to register, visit :

www.buskfest.com

Gardiner Appointed To UK Railway Board

Downpatrick Railway Chairman Joins Top UK Railway Board

A County Down man has become the first person from Northern Ireland to be elected to the Board of Directors of the Heritage Railway Association (HRA).

Robert Gardiner, Chairman of the Downpatrick & County Down Railway, was elected at the Association’s Spring Conference in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, and has already attended his first board meeting.

is appointment marks the first time Northern Ireland has been represented on the HRA’s main board.

The HRA is the umbrella body for heritage railways across the UK and Ireland, representing the sector at government level, influencing legislation and safety policy, and ensuring that heritage railways, large and small, have a voice in national decision-making.

The organisation has also been a long-standing supporter of the Downpatrick & County Down Railway, particularly in areas such as advocacy, guidance and sector representation. 

Lord Stephen Parkinson of Whitley Bay, Chairman of the HRA (left) with Robert Gardiner (centre), with Steve Oates CEO of the Heritage Railway Association.

The railway has also enjoyed significant success at the HRA’s annual awards, including its Compliance Officer Christopher McCausland winning the coveted Rising Star of the Year award last month at a gala event in Llandudno.

Mr Gardiner has served as Chairman of the not-for-profit charitable railway for almost a decade and first became involved as a volunteer at the age of 17.

During that time, Robert has led the organisation through a number of significant challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic and the severe flooding in 2023, while continuing to develop the railway’s role as a community-focused social enterprise.

Under his leadership, the Downpatrick & County Down Railway was named Social Enterprise of the Year in 2024, and Mr Gardiner was recognised as Leader of the Year (Small Organisation) in 2025 by the Chief Operating Officers of the Third Sector.

Speaking following his election, Mr Gardiner said the approach had come as a surprise.

He said: “A few months ago I received an unexpected call from Steve Oates, the CEO of the HRA, asking if I would consider standing.

“Despite having been volunteering in the heritage railway sector since my teens, and championing both Northern Ireland and Downpatrick throughout that time, I never expected that from a small railway in County Down would end up sitting alongside some of the biggest heritage railways in the UK on the sector’s national board, such as the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway,” he said.

“Whilst a certain Jim Hacker quote springs to mind, namely when Jim goes ‘I have no ambitions in that direction, but if my friends and colleagues advise me that in some humble capacity I could serve my country…’, it really was the support of my own Board colleagues that was critical in my decision to allow my name to go forward.

Commenting on the appointment, Lord Stephen Parkinson of Whitley Bay, Chairman of the HRA, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Robert to the HRA board, as well as now giving us representation from every part of the UK.

“The expertise he brings from Downpatrick & County Down Railway and his enthusiastic commitment to heritage rail will help us to deliver for members across the whole sector.”

Mr Gardiner added he said he hoped to bring a Northern Ireland perspective to the role, shaped by the region’s devolved regulatory environment, as well as his experience of running a social enterprise rooted in its local community.

Robert added: “I look forward to working with colleagues from across the heritage railway sector, sharing my experience, and, in due course, welcoming them to Northern Ireland.”

Clarke Condemns Mournes Arsonists

Mournes Arsonists Do Damage That Will Last For Years Says Clarke

Sinn Féin Mournes Councillor Willie Clarke has strongly condemned those responsible for a series of deliberate fires across the Mourne area, describing the incidents as reckless acts that threaten both the natural environment and local communities.

Fires were reported at Slievenaman Road and Ballagh Road in Newcastle, as well as Sandbank Road in Hilltown, causing widespread concern due to the severe and long-lasting damage they inflict.

Cllr Clarke said these acts of arson are not only destructive in the immediate sense but have consequences that will be felt for years to come.

“These fires damage fragile habitats, devastate wildlife, and significantly impact water quality. They also pose a very real danger to nearby homes and, most importantly, to human life,” he said.

The Mournes burns: Newcastle Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke has thanked everyone involved in fighting the recent Mourne fires and condemned the arsonists who started the fires.

He emphasised the unique significance of the Mourne Mountains, widely known as the “Mountains of Mourne,” a world-renowned Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

In 2023, the range also received international recognition as part of the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark, highlighting both its geological importance and rich cultural heritage.

“Deliberate wildfires in the Mourne Mountains are nothing short of an attack against nature and our community,” added Cllr Clarke. “These fires devastate the landscapes that countless species depend on and place enormous pressure on already stretched emergency services.”

Cllr Clarke paid tribute to the dedication and professionalism of the emergency responders saying “I want to commend our blue light services, particularly the firefighters from across the North, who have worked tirelessly in extremely challenging conditions to combat these devastating fires and protect life and property.

“I would also like to thank local businesses for donating food to frontline fire-fighters .”

He also acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the Forever Mournes Partnership in preserving and protecting the area, noting that their work rewetting peatlands, is vital in safeguarding the future of the region.

Highlighting the broader impact, he warned that malicious fires place an unsustainable burden on limited resources, particularly as the region approaches the summer months. He urged the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the PSNI.

Cllr Clarke said: “The damage caused by gorse fires is long-lasting, and areas of outstanding natural beauty can take years to recover.”

He added that it is essential that recommendations from the wildfire action plan are implemented as quickly as possible, particularly education campaigns and land management, removing large areas of gorse, the creation of fire breaks, controlled burning, and with DEARA, working with land owners and trustees to ensure improved land management.

Nesbitt Visits Ards Community Maternity

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt Welcomed At Ards Hospital Community Maternity For The International Day Of The Midwife

A visit by the Health Minister to the Community Maternity Hub at Ards Hospital marked the start of the celebrations to honour International Day of the Midwife on the 5th May 2026.

Mike Nesbitt MLA was delighted to meet the Midwives there and recognise the vital role they play in supporting women and families.

During the visit, the Minister had the opportunity to talk to Midwives about the wide range of services they deliver through the Community Maternity Hub, which provides antenatal, intranatal and postnatal care for women across the local area.

The Hub supports women through their pregnancy journey with clinics in Holywood, Ards, East Belfast and Bangor, offering care primarily for those with low-risk pregnancies, while also supporting higher-risk women at various stages of their pregnancy. 

Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt, MLA chatting with staff from Ards Hospital Community Maternity Hub.

Services include booking scans, glucose tolerance testing and delivering care as close to home as possible.

Midwives also provide home birth services and carry out postnatal home visits, ensuring continuity of care for mothers and babies.

In addition, the Team runs a breastfeeding support group in partnership with Health Visiting colleagues, providing crucial ongoing support to families in the community.

The Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt, said: This was really energising for me because we are trying to shift left into the neighbourhood model.

“I am very conscious that there are groups who are already delivering and have been delivering at the neighbourhood level for a long time, including the midwives here at the Community Hub.

“It was really informative to meet the staff and to hear the issues that they have, what they do, how they help young mothers and also to show support, because sometimes you are walking into people’s homes and you do not know them, or their circumstances, so it can be really stressful as well as a very joyous occupation. 

“It is essential that we recognise and celebrate our midwives. We know that the first thousand days are crucial to every child’s development.

“The Midwife plays a vital role in those earliest days. Continuity of midwifery care is important, as it allows the mum to get to know the midwife and develop a trusted relationship.

“Trust is so important because being pregnant, particularly for the first time, can be a very anxious time. It can be a period of great uncertainty and challenge for mums, so having a trusted midwife there for them is so important.” 

South Eastern Trust Chairman, Jonathan Patton added: “It was great to welcome the Minister to the Community Maternity Hub at Ards Hospital ahead of International Day of the Midwife.

“This visit provided a valuable opportunity to highlight the exceptional work of our Community Midwives and to hear directly about the important role they play in delivering high-quality care to women and families across the South Eastern Trust.”

South Eastern Trust, Lead Midwife, Claire McGuigan, said: “We are very proud of the service we provide here in Ards Hospital.

“It was important for the Minister to see first-hand the quality of care available and the positive experience we offer to women throughout their pregnancy journey.

“Women can receive the majority of their care within a familiar, supportive environment, seeing the same Midwives throughout, which helps to build trust and confidence.

“We also continue that support after birth through home visits and our breastfeeding support group.

“A lot of work has gone into creating a welcoming and safe environment for families and we are proud to showcase the difference our Team makes every day.”