A series of "game-changing" improvements have been completed at Armagh's historic Derrymore Estate in Bessbrook.

Investment of £632,658 was pledged to support the development of new play and recreation facilities, bringing new life to the land.

The project was funded under DAERA's the Rural Development Programme’s Co-Operation Scheme in partnership with Moorehall Estate in Co Mayo. The partnership project was initiated by Mourne, Gullion and Lecale Rural Development Partnership and the two sites are linked by historical contexts and topography, which are similar in both estates.

The Derrymore project was carried out at the historic Derrymore Estate, which consists of 110 acres including 43 acres of park land donated by John Richardson to the National Trust in 1952, before being opened up to the public in 1957. DAERA's grant funding contributed to the cost of capital works including installation of toilet facilities, car park extension, formalised play area and access works. Further funding of £174,772 was provided by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council together with a contribution of £79,153 from Sport NI. The Moorehall Estate element of the project involved the development of walking trails, restoration of the avenue that runs through the site, provision of a play area, and the creation of a number of picnic and viewing areas at strategic locations across the site.

-- Advertisement --

Welcoming the completion of the project, DAERA Minister Edwin Poots said: "The improvements which have been undertaken at Derrymore are a game changer for locals and visitors alike. Accessing outdoor facilities benefits our health and wellbeing and many people will enjoy the benefits of this scheme by visiting, walking and running through the grounds every day.

"I want to take this opportunity to thank the social partners and Councillors on the Local Action Group, and the volunteers of the Friends of Derrymore, for the time they have given up to make great projects like this come alive, especially in the face of challenges brought about by Covid-19."

Councillor Cathy Mason, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council added: "This is a fantastic example of how working in partnership can deliver a facility which is a real asset for the local area and will continue to be for many years to come. I would like to commend the Local Action Group and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and all project partners for their efforts in this vitally important cross border project."