£500k urban park design changes approved without challenge

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s (NMDDC) state of the art skate and bike project is supported by the Department for Communities (DfC) with a combined £500k investment.

The redrawn plans for the Dunleath Park site in Downpatrick are due to be signed off next week on an addendum list. That means, if councillors agree, there will be no debate in chambers with construction work already started.

A council report states: “This proposal seeks amendments (layout) to the previous permission approved (March 2023).

“The proposal seeks full planning permission to provide a sprayed concrete skateboard facility consisting of ramps and ridges including a pump track constructed from crushed aggregate.”

The 400m² skate-park will include ramps and grind rails as trick features, with the pump track incorporating a dynamic series of banked turns and undulations. The two sites are to be connected by a stone path.

Letters (3) against the development have raised concerns of increased issues with anti-social behaviour, parking and flooding.

Currently, there are no requests for speaking rights at the planning committee from any objectors.

Considering issues raised against the park, a council report states: “On balance and taking into account the objection letters it is concluded that the proposal would not cause demonstrable harm to interests of acknowledged importance and is acceptable to prevailing policy requirements.”

An official sod cutting ceremony has already taken place earlier in January at the Dunleath Urban Sports Park.

NMDDC chairperson, Pete Byrne (SDLP) said: “The facility’s strategic location near Down Leisure Centre will not only create a new hub for recreation but also increase footfall to Downpatrick town centre, linking the park with the High Street and Down Leisure Centre.

“It demonstrates the council’s commitment to enhancing our facilities, fostering vibrant, active, and connected communities, while contributing to the revitalisation of our town centres, and I extend our appreciation to the Department of Communities for its invaluable support of this project.”