Serious concerns about proposed 'Civic Hub'
The Newry City Centre Regeneration Programme is funded as part of the Belfast City Deal project and is, according to Newry and Mourne Council, “an ambitious programme of works planned for the historic core of the City …[including] a destination leisure space, a vibrant Theatre and Conference centre, a Civic and Regional Hub for Newry City, and new outdoor public spaces". Rather than directly attempting to improve the lives of Newry people, it is hoped that “increased vibrancy and footfall that will stimulate further investment and enable the regeneration of Newry for the benefit of the entire district”. Below, Nicola Grant, Newry Workers Party Rep., outlines her significant concerns with the proposal.
The proposed Civic Hub project by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council raises significant concerns that cannot be ignored. As a representative of the Workers Party, I believe it is my duty to highlight these issues and advocate for the priorities of the people of Newry.
Compliance with Planning Policies
The Council has failed to provide clear and transparent evidence of how the Civic Hub project aligns with Regional and Local Planning Policies. There are serious concerns that these policies may be selectively applied to justify this development, rather than adhered to in their entirety.
Impact on Local Retail
The claim that the Civic Hub will benefit local retail is purely speculative. No concrete evidence has been provided to support this assertion. In fact, consolidating council facilities in one location may reduce footfall in other parts of the city, potentially harming local businesses rather than supporting them.
Site Selection Process
The Council has stated that over thirty sites were considered for this project, yet the justification for choosing Abbey Way remains unclear. Stakeholders and the public appear to have been excluded from meaningful input during this process. Would it not be more beneficial to consider an alternative location, such as the old Lidl site? This location offers ample parking and proximity to Bagenal’s Castle, a key tourist attraction.
Heritage and Conservation Concerns
The project claims to make a "positive contribution" to the conservation area and surrounding built heritage, yet no specific details have been provided on how this will be achieved. There is also concern that a modern development could clash with the historical character of the area.
Post-Pandemic Flexible Working
While the need for flexible working arrangements in a post-pandemic era is acknowledged, this does not justify the construction of a large-scale new building. Repurposing existing spaces would be a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution.
Financial Considerations
The Council has failed to provide transparency regarding the cost of the Civic Hub project and how it will be funded, beyond vague references to the Belfast Region City Deal. This raises serious questions about whether the project is financially viable and if it represents value for money for taxpayers.
Systemic Failures in Current Projects
The Council’s systemic failures in delivering existing projects, such as the swimming pool and the long-promised park, cast doubt on its ability to manage a project of this scale. The swimming pool is currently out of use, and broken equipment at public facilities demonstrates a lack of proper maintenance. Meanwhile, the people of Newry have been waiting for over 15 years for a park, with no significant progress
Misplaced Priorities and Self-Serving Agenda
It is deeply concerning that the Council seems to prioritize a modern Civic Hub over addressing long-standing issues that directly affect the community. For example, recent research from the End Child poverty Coalition shows that 27.2% of children in the Newry and Armagh electoral constituency live in poverty with only north and west Belfast having an even higher rate. In Newry and Armagh the child poverty rate has been above 27% since at least 2014, and the Council prefers to spend money on what might be considered vanity projects. Large sums of money are being directed toward a project that primarily benefits council staff, while public-facing projects like the park and leisure facilities are left neglected. This creates the perception of a council more focused on its own needs than those of the people it serves.
Lack of Public Trust and Representation
The Council’s history of unfulfilled promises and delays has eroded public trust. Residents are right to feel sceptical about the Council's ability to manage resources and deliver meaningful projects. Transparency in decision-making and funding allocation is sorely lacking, and this project reflects a disregard for the real needs of Newry residents.
Environmental and Community Impact
There has been no mention of how the Civic Hub will address environmental concerns, including sustainability and carbon emissions. Furthermore, the council has not adequately engaged with the public to ensure the project aligns with community interests.
Conclusion
The Council’s systemic failures, unfulfilled promises, and perceived self-interest cast serious doubt on the justification for and execution of the Civic Hub. Addressing community needs, repairing existing facilities and fulfilling long-standing promises must take precedence before any further resources are allocated to office developments.
The people of Newry deserve better. This project is a clear example of misplaced priorities, and I call on the Council to halt its plans and focus on delivering projects that genuinely improve the quality of life for residents. Transparency, accountability, and community consultation must come first.