Newry's new £18.6m park is approved

The Albert Basin 15 acre site is set to be transformed as a major destination for play, sport, leisure and outdoor recreation by the £18.6m project.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s planning committee unanimously signed off on the long awaited development yesterday (Sept 2), but the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) is still due to have the final say.

Newry Sinn Fein councillor Valerie Harte said :“Happy to propose the officers’ recommendations (for approval) and this is a brilliant day for Newry getting the city park over the line.”

Crotlieve SDLP councillor Declan McAteer added: ”I will second that with great gusto and I think it is a wonderful day for Newry and those who live outside Newry as well.

“I think we will all benefit from this. There has been a tremendous amount of work done by the council staff planning section to get to this and I think they should be commended. And hopefully DfI will have no issues.”

The chamber was told that the planning approval would be sent to DfI due to the land being zoned for another purpose, though the council was confident its plans were “justified”.

The council’s Outline Business Case for the park was approved by the Department for Communities (DfC) with up to £16.2 million available from the Executive’s Complementary Fund for Phase One of the development.The local authority is also investing £2.4 million of funding.

Slieve Croob Alliance councillor Helena Young said: ”It is fantastic to be here today when this is happening.

“I know there have been 10million hurdles jumped to get here and obviously the public was frustrated, but they may not understand the complexities of what it took. So, fingers crossed we are on the run now and hopefully will get on site very soon.”

Committee chairperson Mickey Larkin (Sinn Fein) added: ”The amount of consultations on this report is just incredible and to have satisfied them all is a credit to the planning department.

“The effort, work and due diligence to get it to this stage, on behalf of myself and the committee I would like to thank everyone for their input.”

In March 2026, the council launched the procurement process to select a contractor for construction. According to the council website, the park is due to be completed by 2028.

The city centre area will be transformed into a vibrant, inclusive green space where people can relax, enjoy nature and take part in community events. From waterside walks and natural play areas to urban sports areas and flexible event spaces with links to the Carlingford Lough Greenway.

A statement released by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons read: “My department has worked closely with the council to support the Newry City Park project, and I congratulate all involved in getting to this critical stage.

“Newry City Park is a major development that will bring significant economic, health, and wellbeing benefits to residents and visitors alike.”