Next Stage of Warrenpoint Front Shore Public Realm Works to Commence

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, in partnership with the Department for Communities (DfC), has announced the commencement of the next stage of public realm works along Warrenpoint’s Front Shore.

Following the completion of the promenade, beach and Marine Parade sections in mid-2023 by contractors, Gibson Banbridge, the next phase of works will centre on the front shore car parks at Havelock Place and Osbourne Terrace, and the in-between central green space.

DfC has provided £2.1m of funding for the ‘Warrenpoint Front Shore Car-Parks Public Realm Scheme’ with a contribution of £500,000 from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. Newly appointed contractor, John McQuillan Contracts Ltd, is now on-site working in partnership with scheme consultants AECOM, to deliver the project by the scheduled completion in early 2025.

The scheme will focus on providing a long overdue renewal and upgrade of this space, which was originally developed in the early 1990’s. The nature of the works involves the installation of new kerbing and pathways, car park resurfacing, new decorative street lighting, new street furniture, signage and tree and vegetation planting throughout.

In light of so much planned activity, regular liaison is being held with local elected councillors, statutory agencies and trader representatives from the Warrenpoint Burren and Rostrevor Chamber of Commerce.

Mindful of the town’s busy streets, the contractor, in fulfilling their Public Liaison role, will also be available throughout the duration of the scheme to keep traders and residents informed on progress and address any key issues they may have relating to the construction.

Welcoming the commencement of the scheme, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said, “I am delighted that work to improve the car parks at Havelock Place and Osborne Terrace has commenced. This major investment will complement the recently completed scheme along the Promenade and will help unlock wider physical and social regeneration within Warrenpoint town centre to encourage more visitors and tourists to the area, providing a welcome boost for the local economy.”

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Valerie Harte said, 'This next phase of works along Warrenpoint’s front shore is long overdue and it represents a great opportunity to further boost the overall regeneration and growth of the town. 

“When complete, the promenade and car park upgrade will represent significant investment along Warrenpoint’s Front Shore to complement other previously completed schemes within the town over recent years, such as the Church Street and The Square Public Realm as well as the restoration of Warrenpoint Municipal Park.”