Council Delivers Wide-Ranging UKSPF Projects to Boost Community Spirit, Environment and Economy

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has successfully completed 10 projects funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), each designed to deliver visible benefits for local communities, businesses and visitors across the district. From enhancing green spaces and public amenities to supporting local culture and strengthening community transport, the funding has delivered on its promise to make the district a better place to live, work and visit.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central government funding programme that supports local communities, businesses and skills across the UK. Local councils and partnerships decide priorities for how this funding is used. One of its key strands is called ‘Fostering Community Spirit, Enhancing Local Pride’, which focuses on supporting projects and activities that make places better to live in, strengthen connections between people and encourage residents to feel proud of their local area. The Council has embraced this approach, ensuring that each project contributes to building stronger, more vibrant communities.

United Kingdom Minister for Local Growth, Alex Norris said, “Funding projects like this is part of the government’s commitment to support local councils in Northern Ireland to create thriving communities and deliver economic growth across the UK as promised in our Plan for Change.”

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “We are incredibly proud of the progress made through these projects, which have delivered real benefits to our communities across the district. This funding has helped us enhance public spaces, support local businesses, celebrate our rich culture, and improve accessibility for those who need it most. Most importantly, it has strengthened community pride and created opportunities for people to feel more connected to where they live.”

The impact of the funding has been seen across the Council’s seven District Electoral Areas. Open green spaces were improved through biodiversity planting, removal of invasive species, landscaping, installation of seating, and new interpretative signage. This work was carried out in Crossmaglen Square, Kilbroney Park in Rostrevor, Donard Park and Islands Park in Newcastle, Castlewellan Forest Park, The Grove in Downpatrick, and Delamont Country Park, creating welcoming spaces for recreation while also strengthening the district’s Nature Recovery Network and supporting the restoration of natural habitats.

The Council also invested in new facilities and public infrastructure to improve day-to-day life for residents and visitors. In Dundrum, public conveniences were refurbished and made fully accessible, while in Newry and Downpatrick, ten solar-powered compacting litter bins were installed in busy areas. Alongside this, a district-wide environmental campaign was launched, encouraging residents to play their part in creating a cleaner and greener environment. New refuse lorries featuring striking designs promoting sustainability are now a familiar sight across the district.

Accessibility was another focus of the programme. In partnership with the Mae Murray Foundation, significant improvements were delivered at Cranfield and Tyrella beaches. New pathways, specialist matting and equipment now allow people of all abilities to enjoy the district’s stunning coastline, making these popular destinations more inclusive.

Community celebrations and cultural initiatives were supported through the funding, helping to foster pride of place and bring people together. St Patrick’s Day events in Newry and Downpatrick attracted more than 25,000 spectators combined, with colourful parades, traditional music and dance, family activities and food markets. These celebrations not only showcased Irish heritage but also strengthened the sense of belonging and community spirit. In March, a three-day Arts and Cultural Festival was held in Downpatrick, Newcastle and Newry, attracting more than 1,500 attendees. Through music, storytelling, dance, film and bilingual performances, the festival celebrated the creativity and cultural diversity of the district.

The Council also took steps to support local businesses and promote the district as a place of opportunity. A ‘Make it Local’ spring campaign highlighted 14 independent businesses across towns and villages, encouraging residents and visitors to shop local and recognise the value of supporting small enterprises. On 31 March, the Council hosted the ‘Empowering NMD – People, Place and Prosperity’ Investment Symposium at the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle. This major event brought together community members, businesses, funders and partners to share success stories, explore investment opportunities and highlight regeneration projects aligned with the Belfast City Region Deal.

Community transport was another important strand of work, aimed at reducing social isolation and ensuring that people with mobility challenges or those living in rural areas could take part in community life. In partnership with the voluntary sector, the Council funded new accessible minibuses and employed two full-time drivers, expanding services for people with disabilities and mobility needs.

Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell concluded, “These initiatives not only improve everyday life but also lay the foundation for long-term economic growth and social wellbeing. The Council remains committed to listening to communities and ensuring that every project delivered meets their needs and aspirations. It is through this shared vision and partnership that we can continue to strengthen the identity and pride of Newry, Mourne and Down for generations to come.”