Mathison Raises Safety Concerns Over Lack of Street Lighting at Drumaness Bus Stops
Strangford Alliance MLA Nick Mathison is calling on the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) to address road safety concerns on both sides of the A24 at the junction with the Drumaness Road.
Constituents have contacted Mr Mathison to highlight what they describe as an increasingly unsafe situation, particularly for school children who rely on public transport in the early mornings and late afternoons.
With neither bus stop benefiting from any nearby street lighting, passengers are frequently forced to cross the busy A24 in near-darkness throughout the winter months, particularly on the Ballynahinch bound side.
Strangford Alliance MLA Nich Mathison is calling on Roads Service to install proper lighting at a bus stop on the A24 at Drumaness.
DfI, however, has declined to provide street lighting, citing the request does not comply with their street lighting policy.
Mr Mathison said the situation poses “a clear and avoidable risk” to those using the stops.
“Parents and residents in Drumaness are rightly worried,” he said. “These bus stops serve a large number of school pupils, many of whom are out before daylight during the darker months.
“Expecting children to cross a fast, busy road like the A24 without adequate lighting is simply not acceptable. This is a basic safety issue, and it needs to be treated with urgency.”
“DfI’s refusal to even consider the request for lighting is deeply concerning,” he added. “I wrote to the Department and asked them to urgently reconsider their position but they have again simply restated policy. It is clear to me that if policy does not promote the safety of our children, then the policy cannot be fit for purpose”.
Mr Mathison confirmed he will continue to apply all necessary pressure on the Department on this matter.
Heritage Railway Urges DfI Minister Liz Kimmins To Treat Greenways And Heritage Rail Equally
The Downpatrick and County Down Railway has urged Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins to ensure greenway projects and heritage railways are treated on an equal footing, following the announcement of funding for feasibility and design work for a proposed greenway along the former Downpatrick to Ardglass railway line.
The railway said the use of the old trackbed for a greenway could have a significant impact on the operation and long-term viability of the existing heritage railway corridor.
Robert Gardiner, chairman of the Downpatrick and County Down Railway, said: “We are not opposed to greenways in principle. Well-planned greenways can deliver real benefits for communities, active travel and tourism.
“Our concern is specifically about proposals that would place a greenway on or immediately alongside a single-track operational heritage railway.”
Current DfI Minister Liz Kimmins pictured at the Downpatrick railway in Jiune 2025 with volunteer guard Chris Johnston and Downpatrick and County Down Chairman, Robert Gardiner.
The Downpatrick and County Down Railway, founded in 1985 and recently celebrating its 40th anniversary, has rebuilt and operates a section of the former Belfast and County Down Railway, which closed in 1950.
he railway now functions as a working heritage railway, tourist attraction and charitable social enterprise. Run largely by volunteers, the railway was crowned Northern Ireland’s Social Enterprise of the Year in 2024 and recently received The King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest honour for volunteer-led organisations.
Mr Gardiner added that the announcement came as a surprise given previous engagement with the Department for Infrastructure.
He said: “We had received clear assurances from both Infrastructure Ministers John O’Dowd and Liz Kimmins in person, as well as written confirmation from the Department, that there were no plans for greenways affecting this corridor
Steam on the Downpatrick railway.
“Against that background, it is difficult to understand how a competing use has now progressed to publicly funded feasibility and design work without further engagement.”
The railway has highlighted a wider structural issue around the imbalance in public support for different uses of former transport corridors. Mr Gardiner said that while greenway proposals are able to access Stormont-backed funding for feasibility and design work, there is no equivalent mechanism to support the development of heritage rail proposals using those same corridors.
As a result, heritage railways are placed in direct competition with publicly funded alternatives, despite having to rely almost entirely on charitable income and unpaid volunteer effort.
“This creates a fundamentally uneven playing field,” Mr Gardiner said. “One option is supported and advanced using public funds, while the other is expected to compete for space, legitimacy and attention without any comparable support,” adding, “If only one option is assessed in detail, then it’s difficult to come to a fair decision on the best use of that route.”
The Derry Girls train on the Downpatrick line.
The railway pointed to its own experience as a clear illustration of this imbalance. Where heritage railways wish to explore even modest development or future use of a corridor, they are typically required to commission and fund detailed business cases, technical studies and assessments themselves.
For a volunteer-run charity, the cost of such work can run into tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds and may be entirely unaffordable, effectively removing heritage rail proposals from consideration at a very early stage.
“We are expected to fund full business cases and technical studies ourselves simply to be part of the conversation,” Mr Gardiner said. “At the same time, competing greenway proposals are able to access public funding to explore feasibility and design. That imbalance can determine which uses of a corridor are ever seriously examined.”
Mr Gardiner added that this imbalance is compounded by the Department for Infrastructure’s stated position that it has no statutory remit to support heritage transport, a position the railway says it has encountered repeatedly when seeking assistance or engagement.
“We have been told on a number of occasions that DfI does not have a statutory responsibility to assist the heritage sector. That may be the Department’s position, but in practice it means heritage railways are expected to stand aside while a competing use of the same corridor is actively supported and progressed.”
The railway has also highlighted a number of practical issues that would need to be addressed, including safety, security, maintenance responsibility and long-term planning impacts. Heritage railways operate in a tightly regulated environment where access to the line is deliberately controlled, and significant effort is invested in preventing trespass, vandalism and unauthorised access.
Former DfI Minister John O’Dowd chats to long-term volunteer Cyril Leathers in 2024 and DCDR chair Robert Gardiner in the workshop in Downpatrick.
Introducing a parallel public route beside the railway could undermine those controls and increase liability, particularly where space is limited.
“In practical terms, there is simply not sufficient width along much of the corridor to accommodate both a modern shared-use path for walkers and cyclists and the required safety envelope for trains without compromising the safety of one or both,” Mr Gardiner said.
The railway also notes that once a greenway is established as a public amenity, experience shows it is extremely difficult to alter or remove, even where future transport or heritage use might otherwise be feasible.
“While we are not actively pursuing any significant extension along this particular route at present, it is important that any development along the corridor remains compatible with potential future railway use, rather than permanently ruling it out,” Mr Gardiner said.
At the same time, the railway has acknowledged that an adjacent greenway could offer benefits if it is designed sympathetically and developed collaboratively.
“If approached properly, there could be opportunities for shared tourism appeal, greater awareness and opportunities to improve shared infrastructure,” Mr Gardiner said. “However, experience in England shows these are far from guaranteed and can be marginal when set against the additional risks and constraints placed on an operational heritage railway.”
“We want to engage constructively. If this feasibility work is genuinely about exploring options, then it is essential that existing railway operations, safety requirements and long-term heritage value are fully considered from the outset, rather than treated as constraints after decisions have already been made.”
The Downpatrick and County Down Railway has indicated that it will continue to engage positively with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and the Department for Infrastructure as the feasibility work progresses.
Asda confirms commitment to Downpatrick with plans for new store
Asda has reaffirmed its commitment to the people of Downpatrick after signing contracts with site owner, Celpark Ltd, which is developing the new superstore in the town’s centre.
The new Asda, which will be located at its former site in Ballydugan Retail Park, will replace the temporary, smaller store which has been operating successfully since January 2024.
“A cornerstone of the local retail scene for over 20 years, the original Asda store was irreparably damaged by the storms of November 2023.
While the temporary store has acted as a lifeline for the local community, confirmation of the £multi-million development has been widely welcomed by Asda colleagues in Downpatrick who were the first to be updated on plans by Senior Director for NI, Michael McFadden.
Pictured in Downpatrick where the development of the new Asda superstore is underway are (from l-r): Robert Scott, Celpark Ltd, Tom Irving, OB Construction, Ciara Smith, General Store Manager, Asda Downpatrick and Michael McFadden, Senior Director, Asda NI.
“Today marks another important milestone for our business in Downpatrick and we are thrilled to be able to share this great news with our colleagues, our customers, local politicians, stakeholders and other retailers,” said Michael.
“The hard work now begins to develop our new, modern superstore which will be 20% bigger than the original store, offering significantly more floor space and scope. It also includes a new Petrol Filling Station and upgraded office and colleague space, adding value for all.”
In addition to developing the new Asda superstore, the project will see the demolition of the existing Asda building and extensive investment in the necessary groundworks programme which includes the piling design.
“Celpark’s contractors will work considerately and cause as little disruption as possible during this complex rebuild.”
Dunleath Park and the Down Retail estate flooded in Downpatrick. in November 2023.
Highlighting the need for understanding, Michael McFadden said: “We hope to celebrate our opening in spring 2027 and will continue to operate from our temporary store throughout the rebuild process.
“To further support customers, we also plan to transition operations overnight to the new store, ensuring continuity of trade throughout.
“We know there may be challenges along the way and hope all who work and shop with us will bear with the developers as they progress this complex but vitally important project.”
Thanking colleagues for their hard work and resilience Michael added: “This is the news we’ve long awaited. We’re not simply ‘replacing’, we are ‘upgrading’ to a flagship standard that will serve this community for decades to come.
“We’ve navigated the challenges of the last few years and are now on the pathway to our fantastic new home.”
A Celpark spokesperson said: “We are delighted with the positive progress made to date and would like to thank representatives in Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, and all the local stakeholders who have made this possible.
“This significant project will establish a landmark shopping destination for both Downpatrick and the wider area and will bring much needed investment and footfall to the town.
“Our focus now is on working with our Asda colleagues and local stakeholders to make this a smooth transition.”
SERC Awarded Mental Health Early Intervention and Prevention Grant Funding
South Eastern Regional College (SERC) has been awarded Mental Health Strategy Early Intervention and Prevention Grant Funding from the Public Health Agency.
The £6960 grant will be used to support a new initiative – Thrive: Early Health Programme for Students– which will involve up to 200 students with mild-to-moderate learning difficulties, physical disabilities and long-term health issues, in a programme to enhance their college experience through hands-on activities that build resilience.
Paul Walsh, Head of Learner Development said: “We are delighted to have secured funding for Thrive which offers a physical exercise programme and food preparation activities designed to improve students’ understanding of a healthy lifestyle, while promoting collaboration through hands-on engagement as well as the message of healthy body, healthy mind.”
SERC has received a grant from the Public Health Agency for supporting student mental wellbeing and early intervention.
“Over 16 weeks, across SERC’s four main campuses, students will participate in up to two hours of exercise sessions aimed at boosting students’ confidence, self-esteem, and resilience.
“They will also take part in four hours of cooking activities where they will learn to cook healthy, nutritious meals, fostering empowerment, independence, emotional stability, and social connection with the act of cooking and sharing meals strengthening social bonds and reducing feelings of isolation.”
Paul added: “The mental health of our young people is topical and complex and one which our staff teams at SERC manage as effectively as possible.
“The effects of the COVID-19 lockdowns are particularly pronounced in this projects’ target cohort, as students with mild to moderate learning difficulties, physical disabilities and long-term health conditions struggled to navigate the limited opportunities for socialising and engaging with others during and following that time.
“This project will address these issues in the comfort of the college environment, equipping students will skills and learning they can call on beyond the end of the programme.”
Positive Inspection Report Celebrates the Strengths of Downpatrick Primary School
Downpatrick Primary School Principal Niall Stevenson is delighted at the recent report conducted by the Education and Training Inspectorate.
Downpatrick PS has been praised by the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) following a recent inspection in December 2025, which highlights a welcoming ethos, strong leadership and sector‑leading practice in digital learning.
The inspection summary report, published in December 2025, describes the children as “happy, welcoming and empathetic”, noting that this is reflected in their “positive engagement with everyone in the school community”.
Inspectors found that the school’s longstanding vision is “effective in guiding improvement and is evident in practice throughout the school”, with staff fully committed to ensuring it shapes daily life in the classrooms and beyond.
School leadership and governance were also commended. Inspectors reported that governors are “deeply committed to the school and very well‑informed about the school’s improvement priorities”, and that their active presence at events reflects pride in the school’s inclusive ethos.
Senior staff and governors welcome the recent Inspection Report on Downpatrick Primary School. Back row l-r: Niall Stevenson (Principal), Jo Edgar (Chairperson), Mark Irwin-Watson (CP Governor), Daryn Maginnis (Vice-Principal). Front row: Elsie Storey (Vice Chair), Leah Connolly (P6 Pupil), Ethan Cunningham (P7 Pupil)
The school development plan was described as “strategic and inclusive”, informed by careful analysis of assessment information and consultation with children, parents and governors.
Teaching and learning across the school were judged positively, with an “effective whole‑school approach to planning and assessment for learning” leading to engaging lessons and good progress for pupils.
Of particular note was the school’s use of technology, described as “sector‑leading”, giving children extensive opportunities to develop digital skills that prepare them well “for life and learning beyond school”.
The report also highlights the school’s strong focus on pastoral care, stating that staff promote children’s health and wellbeing “very effectively within a secure and nurturing environment”. Inclusion, equity and diversity were said to “transcend all aspects of school life”, with every child recognised and valued.
Overall, the inspection paints a picture of a vibrant learning community, rooted in care, inclusion, and high‑quality practice, from which “others may learn”.
School Principal, Mr Niall Stevenson, was delighted with the Inspection Report. He said: :It is a testament to the high-quality teaching and learning that goes on at Downpatrick Primary School.
“The inspection team were in school over the busy November/December period and they were very impressed with the highly effective educational experience provided by the school.
“I should like to pay tribute to our teachers, classroom assistants, support staff, governors as well as our children and parents for making Downpatrick Primary School the brilliant school it is.”
Mr Stevenson added: “I am delighted that the inspectors identified two areas aspects of highly effective practice from which other schools may learn. The aspects were our strategically planned approach to integration and inclusion; and the ‘sector-leading’ planning and provision for the development of the children’s digital skills.’
Mrs Jo Edgar, Chairperson of Governors praised the report and the school. She said: “The inspectors were very thorough and took a very detailed look at all aspects of school life, teaching and governance.
“I am delighted at the recognition of the great work and the wonderful children and staff that make up our school.
“I was also very pleased to read that the hard work of the governors was recognised by the inspectors. The commitment from our staff in school to integrate and include the widest range of children and abilities is a great credit to everyone at Downpatrick Primary School.
“This brilliantly positive report gives the main Primary School, its Learning Support Centre and its Special Provision classes a solid foundation for educating the children of Downpatrick into the future.” added Jo Edgar.
Nominate Local Sporting Heroes for the NMD Sports Awards
Newry Mourne and Down District Council, in partnership with the Sports Association Newry, Down and South Armagh (SANDSA) is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for this year’s NMD Sports Awards.
These awards celebrate sporting excellence and the positive role of sport and physical activity by recognising the outstanding achievements and dedication of local athletes, teams, coaches, and volunteers throughout the district in 2025.
The awards ceremony will take place on Friday 20 March 2026 at the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle, bringing together clubs, communities and sporting representatives to honour those who inspire participation and achievement at all levels.
Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Cllr Philip Campbell joins Council Officers, Colleen Morrison (left), Sports Development Officer and Kerri McConnell, Acting Head of Indoor Leisure to launch the NMD Sports Awards, which will be held on Friday 20 March at the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Philip Campbell, said: “These awards offer a wonderful opportunity to recognise the remarkable achievements of individuals and teams throughout our district.
“The athletes, coaches and volunteers nominated represent the very best of local sport.
“Their hard work and passion ensure that opportunities to take part in sport and physical activity continue to grow for people of all ages and abilities. We are proud to celebrate their contributions.”
The categories available for nomination include:
Sports Coach of the Year 2025
Sportsperson / Team of the Year with Disability 2025
Sports Volunteer of the Year 2025
Junior Team of the Year 2025
Senior Team of the Year 2025
Lifetime Services to Sport
Junior Sportsperson of the Year 2025
Senior Sportsperson of the Year 2025
(l-r): Colleen Morrison, Sports Development Officer, Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell and Acting Head of Indoor Leisure, Kerri McConnell, Newry Mourne and Down District Council launch this year’s NMD Sports Awards.
Nominations are open to athletes, sports clubs, schools, community groups, local organisations and members of the public across the district.
Nomination forms are available from:
Council website: www.newrymournedown.org/nmd-sports-awards
Newry Leisure Centre Reception: 60 Cecil Street, Newry, BT35 6AU
Down Leisure Centre Reception: 114 Market Street, Downpatrick, BT30 6LZ
Completed nomination forms must be submitted by Monday 26 January 2026 at 4pm.
Forms can be emailed to [email protected] or returned to reception at Newry or Down Leisure Centres.
The excitement is building up now for the Six Nations rugby tournament which will run from the 5-14th February 2026 involving Ireland, Scotland, Wales, England and France.
Who are the fresh names we might see?
Alan Quinlan: “Zac Ward has been outstanding for Ulster this season and he’s someone that’s come into the mix.
“Mack Hansen has been a loss. Jamie Osborne is a brilliant footballer, possibly moving into the centre positions, it’s probably a more natural position for him.
Zac Ward on the attack for Ballynahinch during their Ulster Senior League clash against Armagh at Ballymacarn Park, in 2020.(Photo by John Dickson / Dicksondigital).
“Edwin Edogbo and Brian Gleeson are two young players from Munster who were in the squad for November. Paddy McCarthy came in and did really well.
“Ryan Baird will be back as well. If they get their best team and luck on the injury front, they’re definitely a team that can challenge for a Six Nations, but they are probably just that level below the top two at the moment.
Andy Farrell and Ireland need to get a spark back in their attack
Alan Quinlan: “There were a lot of questions asked of Andy Farrell in November. There’s the Sam Prendergast vs. Jack Crowley situation, and Ireland have stagnated a little bit.
“My hope is to see a spark back in their attack. The game has changed; stats show territory is far more effective than overplaying in your own half.
“But I’d love to see Ireland’s attack click a little bit more. We’ve seen glimpses. Losing three games isn’t a disaster, but the expectation for the level they were at for 2022 and 2023 brings scrutiny.
“I”reland’s pool of players is small. It’s difficult to find players in key positions that make a real difference straight away. Particularly the centres – Gary Ringrose, Robbie Henshaw, Bundee Aki have been around a long time. There is a little bit of predictability about it.”
Action Cancer Returns to Marbella for Spain’s Biggest Walking Festival in 2026
• Supporters Jude and Sarah Return for a Second Year to Support the Charity That Helped Jude’s Mum
Action Cancer, Northern Ireland’s leading, local cancer charity, is delighted to announce that it is heading back to Marbella for the Walking Festival in October 2026.
Taking place from 30 September to 5 October 2026, the Marbella Walking Festival offers participants the opportunity to choose daily walking distances of 10km, 20km or 30km, taking in Marbella’s coastal paths, countryside trails and mountain routes.
Following the positive feedback from last year’s event, Action Cancer is looking forward to welcoming both returning and new supporters for an even bigger adventure in 2026.
As people plan for the year ahead, Action Cancer is encouraging supporters to set a positive goal for 2026 by taking on a meaningful challenge.
The Marbella Walking Festival provides an opportunity to improve fitness, enjoy an international experience and raise vital funds to support people affected by cancer across Northern Ireland.
Jude Agnew and Sarah Forde pictured during the Marbella Walking Festival in October 2025, supporting Action Cancer.
Among those returning are Jude Agnew and Sarah Forde, who are taking part for a second year in memory of Jude’s mother and to support the charity that played a life-saving role in her care.
Jude said: “In 1988, our mother, Mrs Joan Agnew, attended Action Cancer House in Belfast for a breast screening. A concern identified during her mammogram led to further investigations and a breast cancer diagnosis.
“Mum was treated at the Royal Victoria Hospital, undergoing a partial mastectomy followed by radiation treatment.
“She remained cancer-free for the rest of her life and continued to support Action Cancer through annual donations in recognition of the care and assistance the team provided to her and others.
“As a family, we firmly believe that the early detection provided by Action Cancer saved our mother’s life.”
“When my friend Sarah heard about the Marbella Walking Festival fundraiser on the radio, we agreed it would be a great way to improve our fitness while supporting a charity that means so much to us.
“We thoroughly enjoyed the 10km-a-day experience in October 2025. While challenging at times, the walks were incredibly rewarding, with stunning mountain and coastal views.
“Our thoughts were with those we have lost to cancer and with friends and family currently undergoing treatment or recovery.
Broadcaster Carolyn Stewart and Breast Friends Ambassador and artist Jacqueline Rooney (front row) pictured with fellow participants supporting Action Cancer at the Marbella Walking Festival in October 2025.
“Exploring Marbella’s old town was a particular highlight and the afternoons allowed time to relax before returning to the very comfortable hotel. We are extremely grateful to everyone who supported our fundraising and are really looking forward to taking part again in 2026.”
Kelsey O’Donnell, Treks & Activities Executive at Action Cancer, added: “The Marbella Walking Festival in October 2025 was a huge success, and it’s fantastic to see four past participants, alongside Jude and Sarah, returning for a second year. We’re also delighted to welcome six new participants who have already signed up for 2026.
“We’re excited to see this challenge continue to grow year on year. It offers people the chance to explore beautiful scenery, build new friendships, stay active and, most importantly, make a real impact on the lives of local people affected by cancer across Northern Ireland.”
“Everyone who signs up will receive dedicated one-to-one support, a tailored fundraising plan and branded materials to help them reach their target.
“With a new year ahead, it’s the perfect time to commit to something positive, train for a challenge and join us in Marbella for an unforgettable experience.”
Registration for the Marbella Walking Festival is £100, with each participant committing to raise a minimum of £1,700 in sponsorship. This includes return flights, transfers, four-star accommodation, half-board meals and a festival pass.
Funds raised will go directly towards Action Cancer’s essential services, which include breast screening for women aged 40-49 or 70+, (specifically for those who have no breast cancer symptoms and fall outside of the NHS screening service age range) as well as a skin cancer detection service for men and women aged 18 and above.
In addition, therapeutic support such as counselling, complementary therapy, acupuncture and scar therapy is available to anyone impacted by a cancer diagnosis.
Marbella Walking Festival Details:
Dates: 30th September – 5th October 2026
Registration Fee: £100
Minimum Sponsorship: £1,700
Accommodation: Sol Marbella Estepona Atalaya Park (4* hotel)
Walking Distances: Choose between 10km, 20km, or 30km per day
Half Board: Breakfast and evening meal included
Festival Pass and Return Flights Included
Action Cancer is calling on individuals to be part of this unforgettable journey, to push their limits, soak in the beauty of Marbella and play a vital role in funding services that provide life-saving cancer prevention, detection, and support to thousands across Northern Ireland.
Join friends Jude and Sarah, Carolyn Stewart, and many other participants in taking on this challenge while making a real impact on local lives.
For more information or to sign up, contact Kelsey O’Donnell, Treks & Activities Executive at Action Cancer via email [email protected] or call 028 9080 3352.
Ulster Unionist Party Begins Leadership Transition Process
The Ulster Unionist Party has today formally commenced its leadership transition process as Mike Nesbitt is to step down and concentrate on his role as Health Minister.
To ensure a smooth and orderly transition, Mike Nesbitt MLA will continue in his role until the Party convenes an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on Saturday 31 January 2026 at the Stormont Hotel, Belfast.
The Ulster Unionist Party has begun its leadership selection process.
At this meeting, in accordance with Party Rules, members will elect a new Leader and Deputy Leader jointly. Formal nominations for both positions are now open and will close on 15 January 2026.
As part of this process, the Party will also host two internal, members-only hustings events to allow prospective candidates to engage directly with the membership.
Ulster Unionist Party Chair Lord Elliott of Ballinamallard said:
“This is a pivotal moment for our party. By implementing a clear and collaborative leadership transition process, we are ensuring that our next chapter is guided by constructive and dynamic dialogue.”
Prestigious award for local water leader Paddy Brow hails from Bangor
Bangor man Paddy Brow, who is Head of the Living With Water Programme at NI Water, has been recognised for his exemplary leadership with the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) President’s Award for Innovation 2025.
This distinguished national award is given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional creativity and practical innovation in tackling the significant challenges facing water and environmental management today.
Mr Brow has been celebrated for his outstanding contribution in spearheading the Living With Water Programme (LWWP), which has become a model of collaborative and sustainable planning within the sector.
The LWWP was established to bring together key stakeholders to develop a catchment-based, sustainable drainage and wastewater management plan for Greater Belfast, in which over one third of the NI population live.
The key objectives of the plan are to reduce flood risk, enhance water quality in Belfast Lough, and pave the way for future economic growth.
Paddy Brow, Head of the Living With Water Programme at NI Water, has been recognised for his exemplary leadership with the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) President’s Award for Innovation 2025. He is pictured being presented with his award by Hannah Burgess, Past President, CIWEM, and Peter Rook, Past Early Careers President, CIWEM at the awards ceremony which took place at the Drapers Hall, City of London. (Photo: Matt Writtle.)
By fostering close collaboration between organisations such as the Department for Infrastructure, Utility Regulator, DAERA, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, and Belfast City Council, the programme succeeded in developing a comprehensive plan that was endorsed by the Northern Ireland Executive and published in 2021, with delivery commencing shortly after.
Whilst delivery of the major projects had to be paused in 2024, delivery of many of the smaller elements continues at a pace in accordance with the available funding.
Commenting on his award win, Paddy Brow said: “Winning this award is an incredible honour for our entire team.
“It’s a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion we’ve poured into our work. This achievement inspires us to continue striving to achieve the plan objectives over the years ahead.”
Congratulating Paddy on his award, NI Water Director of Infrastructure Tzvetelina Bogoina said: “All of us at NI Water send hearty congratulations to Paddy and all those involved in the Living With Water Programme for this well-deserved honour, reflecting the tireless efforts made to secure a safer, greener, and more prosperous future.
“Paddy’s approach has not only benefited Belfast but has also set a benchmark for similar initiatives throughout the UK and Europe.
“The recognition from CIWEM highlights the wider impact of the Living With Water Programme, showcasing how innovative thinking and partnership working can help address environmental challenges faced by communities on a national and international scale.”
