Southern Regional College, alongside representatives from the Department for the Economy, main contractor Felix O'Hare and Co. Limited, and architects McAdam Design, has marked the official start of construction on the new £14.5 million Newry Innovation Centre with a sod-cutting ceremony.

The two-storey, 2,223m² building is being constructed on the former car park of the Newry East Campus on Patrick Street, which was previously the location of the Newry Sports Centre. The project will establish a modern, vibrant educational facility designed to enhance teaching and learning opportunities for the local community.

Newry-based contractor Felix O'Hare and Co. Limited is spearheading the build. The construction phase is expected to generate significant local employment, including numerous Apprenticeship and Higher Level Apprenticeship roles. Designed by McAdam Design and fully funded by the Department for the Economy, the sustainable and energy-efficient building is scheduled to open in September 2027, featuring purpose-built project-based learning areas, collaborative workspaces, and breakout zones.

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Mrs. Lee Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College, said: "I am delighted to see the Newry Innovation Centre project now reach this significant milestone. The College remains committed to building a strong educational future offering inclusive, high quality learning experiences while investing in cutting-edge, modern, and pioneering facilities that align with regional needs and progression pathways.

"This is an exciting time for Southern Regional College, the city of Newry and the wider region, and I look forward to seeing the project take shape in the months ahead."

Mr. Ian Snowden, Permanent Secretary, Department for the Economy, said: "I am pleased to be in Newry today to celebrate an important milestone for this project, which is being funded by the Department for the Economy. The construction of this new, state of the art campus will contribute to the Department's economic priorities, creating valuable employment and apprenticeship opportunities. I look forward to seeing the project develop into a vibrant educational environment that will inspire many."

Mark Campbell, Managing Director of Felix O'Hare and Company Limited, said: "It's a privilege to be appointed as main contractor for the Newry Innovation Centre. Felix O'Hare is a Newry firm, and a project of this importance, built in our own city, means a great deal to everyone on the team. We'll be recruiting locally right through the build. That includes a number of apprenticeships and Higher Level Apprenticeships, giving young people here the chance to train on a major scheme and to build a career without having to leave the area. Skilled trades take years to develop, and projects like this one are how it's done. We're looking forward to delivering a best in class facility that Newry can be proud of."