Newry SDLP Councillors Doire Finn and Killian Feehan have secured a commitment that Newry Mourne and Down District Council will respond to DfI Southern Relief Road consultation, affirming opposition to any proposal for a fixed bridge over Newry Canal. Council has also agreed to write the incoming Infrastructure Minister to clarify if she shares the same opinion as her predecessor on a fixed bridge.
Newry SDLP Councillor Doire Finn said: “I have supported the idea of a lifting bridge over the Canal since it has been raised with me, and I have raised this issue on a number of occasions throughout my time in council.
“Indeed, it was at my repeated insistence that we secured a meeting with the Infrastructure Minister to discuss this issue. Newry’s maritime past and the history of the Canal is incredibly important to our city and our residents, and it is vitally important that we protect this asset moving forward.
“Along with this, given that Newry City Park is due to be completed by 2027, we must not close off the economic potential that this will bring to the canal.
Newry SDLP Councillor Killian Feehan continued: “It is encouraging that the Council has backed our call to respond to the Southern Relief Road consultation opposing a fixed bridge over the Canal.
“It would be incredibly short sighted if the Department for Infrastructure pushes ahead with a fixed bridge. People in Newry want our Canal to be protected and regenerated, not permanently shut off as part of a cost saving exercise. The Department needs to sit up and listen before it’s too late.”
ENDS
CLANRYE NEWS 