Civil Marriages and Partnerships

The Marriage (Northern Ireland) Order 2003 and The Marriage (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2003.

The Civil Partnership Act 2004 and The Civil Partnership Regulations 2005.

Civil marriage (different sex partners) and civil partnership (same sex partners) ceremonies may be performed at a place approved by the Council.

Approved Places

An approved place can include:

• Buildings or rooms
• Outdoor areas or land
• Temporary structures
• Boats or other vessels

A place approval lasts for 3 years.

Temporary Approvals

A temporary approval can be given for a one-off ceremony at a specific venue.

Places Not Approved

Approval will not be given for any place linked to a religion or used for religious activities. For example, a church, chapel, or private chapel in a stately home.

Applying for Place Approval

If you plan to get married or enter a civil partnership at an approved venue in the Newry, Mourne and Down area, please contact the Registrar early to confirm availability:

Newry Town Hall, Bank Parade, Newry

0330 137 4041

Downshire Civic Centre, Downshire Estate, Ardglass Road, Downpatrick

0330 137 4041

You must book the Registrar before confirming your venue.

Fees

Please note:  when an application for approval for both Civil Marriage and Civil Partnerships is being made at the same time and for the same venue there is an additional administration fee of £52. Therefore the total fee is £382.

Cheques should be made payable to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

How to Apply

Application forms can be obtained from:

Or by clicking on the relevant links below: