A canoe trail that could be developed on Newry Ship Canal is a “massive step forward” in water recreation for the district.
The council’s economy, regeneration and tourism committee has this week agreed to allow Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI) to undertake a planning phase for the project.
The Newry and Portadown branch of IWAI will now design a canoe trail along the 20-mile long waterway with three locations for boarding the boats.
Mournes DUP cllr, Glyn Hanna said: “To develop these waterways would be a massive improvement from what we have at the moment. The harbours especially in Kilkeel aren’t suitable for most canoeing as it’s too polluted.
“To go out to sea or even into Carlingford Lough, it’s risky to a certain extent. The waterways at the likes of Victoria Lock and on up towards Scarva would be ideal to develop for a recreational area for water type activities. This would be a massive step forward to our local area.”
The three potential areas of development are; Victoria Lock, WIN Industrial Estate and an area behind St Colman’s College.
As the canal is a scheduled monument any works will require the approval of the Historic Environmental Division (HED).
All funding for the project is to be secured by IWAI via funding applications.
Newry Sinn Fein rep, Valerie Harte added: “It is great to see the canal being utilised with the canoe trail. It will be very welcomed in the Newry area.”
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