Councillor's frustration over ‘lack of progress’ on canal regeneration
A Newry councillor has raised concerns over a “lack of progress” over the regeneration of Newry Canal.
Cllr Killian Feehan received cross-party support in April when he asked councillors to “imagine a future where Newry Canal, the oldest summit level canal in Ireland or Britain, is not just a relic of the past, but a driver of economic renewal, tourism and community well being, a place where heritage propels opportunity, and where the canal once again becomes the lifeblood of a thriving Newry”.
Four months down the line from his motion being approved, the SDLP representative has shared his frustration at a lack of any kind of update.
Speaking during Monday night’s full council meeting, Cllr Feehan pointed out that Newry, Mourne and Down District Council “at this stage has passed not one, but two motions with cross-party support - in November 2024 and again, in April 2025 - calling for urgent and visible steps to revitalise the canal”.
However, he added: “Despite that there hasn’t been any tangible action and no meaningful progress [or] update brought to councillors or to the public and, if I’m been really honest with you, I find that unacceptable.
“I'm therefore asking that a written update on canal regeneration be brought to the next full meeting to include a timeline of actions that have been taken since November 2024, any barriers that have been identified by officers and a forward plan with deliverables and milestones.”
Council Chief Executive, Marie Ward, said that such a report would have to go to September’s Sustainability and Environment committee.
Cllr Feehan queried why, if the motion was passed in April at full Council, can’t the progress update be brought back to the full Council.
Mrs Ward pointed to the council’s standing orders, adding that it would come through the minutes into the full council.
The councillor then queried why the update could not be brought before the August S&E committee, which is due to be held on August 19.
A council officer said that “taking account of officer leave”, they would “endeavour to have a report back for the August committee, but if not it it will have to go to September”.
She added: “Steps are progressing in the background so we certainly can bring an update report back as soon as possible.”