Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has officially launched the Masterplan for South East Coast.

The Masterplan provides the strategic vision and guidance for the regeneration and development of the three towns of Newcastle, Kilkeel and Warrenpoint over the next 15 years

Minister McCausland said:"The Mourne Mountains is an area of outstanding natural beauty and the towns of Newcastle, Kilkeel and Warrenpoint together have a strong role to play in supporting visitors to the Mournes and the wider South East Region. The Masterplan proposal shows how these three individually distinct centres by working together, can become collectively strong to provide the full tourism offering that will help to drive direct public and private investment in the region.

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"Some of the exciting and ambitious proposals in the Masterplan include a Gondola into the Mournes, a premier attraction that could become a signature project for the entire South East Coast. Other proposals include the development and promotion of Kilkeel Harbour to champion its fishing industry heritage and reputation for fine seafood cuisine and a proposal to build on Warrenpoint’s reputation as a centre for watersports, with a new marina providing direct access to Carlingford Lough to support boat trips and visiting cruisers.

"I am confident that the Masterplan launched here today shows how the South East Coast can strengthen its reputation as a high quality scenic destination with rich and diverse range of exciting activities."

(CD/GK)