A programme of £2.2 million improvements has enhanced the look of Newry City Centre.

Upgrades took place on parts of Hill Street, O'Hagan Street, Mill Street and St Colmans Park as part of a new public realm scheme.

The project has delivered new improved safer footways, new street lighting, new pedestrian and controlled crossings and improvements to road layouts. An additional entrance has also been added to St Colman's Park as well as seating and landscaping improvements.

The Department for Communities provided the majority of the funding, with the remainder from Newry, Mourne & Down District Council who managed the delivery of the scheme. 

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Welcoming the improvements, Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey said: "This £2.2m investment has been a welcome boost for Newry City centre. Public realm schemes such as this deliver physical enhancements to our town and city centres and make them more appealing, accessible, vibrant and welcoming places to be. This supports local businesses and employment growth.

"I am sure everyone who uses the city centre has seen the improvements take shape and can now enjoy all the benefits the improved environment brings as the city centre continues in its recovery from the economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic."

The Chair of Newry Mourne and Down District Council, Cllr Cathy Mason, added: "With on-site delivery commencing during the 2020 lockdown it was a very difficult time for both traders and our wider community. The now completed scheme has been a great benefit and boost to Newry as local traders try to rebuild their business and encourage footfall back into the City Centre."