Following the announcement by the National Trust to refuse a lease of lands at Slieve Donard for the development of the Mourne Mountains Gateway project, the Council is actively working with all partners to secure the £30million Belfast Region City Deal (BRCD) investment in the Newry, Mourne and Down district area.
Having considered project options as submitted to the Council against the BRCD aims and objectives, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, with the full agreement of its BRCD partners, is now actively exploring a proposal to deliver the Mourne Mountains Gateway project in Kilbroney Forest Park.
The initiative is supported by the Warrenpoint, Burren and Rostrevor Chamber of Commerce, who described it as “a game-changer for tourism in the region – with the imminent opening of the Narrow Water Bridge, this would create a compelling tourism offering in the district, while also encouraging visitors to continue their journeys into the heart of the Mournes and beyond.”
Environmental sensitivity will continue to be a core principle of the proposal. The cable car route is yet to be determined but it will not pass through the ancient oak woodland and development would be carried out in a sustainable manner that protects the park’s natural assets.
Crucially, the project would be designed to promote accessibility, allowing people of all abilities to experience the breathtaking landscapes and biodiversity of the area. Building on UNESCO Global Geo Park status, it will spotlight the rich history and geological uniqueness of the Mourne Mountains, enhancing appreciation and stewardship of this treasured environment.
Importantly, the facility will reinvest in the protection, maintenance and enhancement of Kilbroney Forest Park for future generations.
A council spokesperson said, “We look forward to working closely with community stakeholders, environmental experts, BRCD and tourism partners to develop the Kilbroney Park proposal to ensure it reflects the shared ambition for a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable future.”
Retention of the funding requires the agreement of all BRCD partners and any proposal must meet the BRCD objectives to enhance the attractiveness of Northern Ireland as a world-class visitor destination. This requires investment in projects of sufficient scale and nature, which are capable of attracting visitors from outside NI to the region and encouraging visitors to stay longer and spend more. The investment must deliver significant economic, social and environmental benefits around the region, so that communities in all parts of Northern Ireland benefit, all year round.
