Calls are being made for Council to prioritise the restoration of Warrenpoint’s historic sea baths.
The once majestic baths, which have been allowed to fall into a state of disrepair, were the coastal town’s calling card.
Opened in 1908, thousands descended on Warrenpoint each and every summer with the baths a focal point of those visits.
The lustre has since dissipated and what remains is the shadow – and faint memories – of yesteryear.
But it doesn’t have to be like that.
The Warrenpoint Community Association is urging councillors to actively champion the initiative, leveraging available funding opportunities to bring the vision to fruition, especially in the wake of the failed Mournes Gateway project.
While many plans have been discussed over the years little has ever been done to develop the site; soon enough – if nothing is done – the crumbling structure will physically fade along with the memories.
The Association says a revitalisation project should be positioned as a cornerstone in a broader cross-border regeneration strategy for the Carlingford Lough region.
And that they envision transforming the site into a modern, heritage-sensitive facility featuring an outdoor sea pool, wellness centre, and accessible public spaces for both residents and visitors.
This redevelopment, they say, aligns with existing planning permissions and complements ongoing regional projects, including:
– Narrow Water Bridge: A pedestrian and cyclist-friendly crossing under construction, linking Warrenpoint and Omeath, fostering cross-border connectivity.
– Newry City Park: An £18 million initiative transforming the Albert Basin into a vibrant urban green space.
– Newry Canal Revival: Proposals to rejuvenate Ireland’s oldest summit canal, enhancing tourism and heritage appreciation.
– Carlingford Lough Greenways: Development of sustainable travel routes connecting communities along both sides of the lough.
In a statement, released alongside CGI images on Monday morning, a spokesperson said: “The Association emphasises that restoring the sea baths would not only preserve a cherished landmark but also serve as a catalyst for economic growth, tourism, and community well-being.
“With the recent withdrawal of the Mourne Mountains Gateway project, there is an urgent opportunity to redirect funding towards community-supported initiatives like this.
“Revitalising the Warrenpoint Sea Baths is more than a restoration project; it’s about honouring our heritage and investing in our future.
“We urge our councillors to seize this moment and lead the charge in transforming the baths into a beacon of regional pride and cross-border unity.”
“The Association is calling on councillors, the local chamber of commerce, tourism bodies, and cross-border agencies to reaffirm their support and work together to deliver a project that reflects both community heritage and regional ambition.”
