Lottery Boost For Warrenpoint Park

Warrenpoint Park is to receive almost £1m from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

The park, located in Newry, is one of 15 historic parks and cemeteries across the UK to have successfully been awarded funds today (8 January).

The ambitious regeneration plans from Newry and Mourne District Council to restore the Victorian park to its former glory will receive a £932,000 grant through the HLF's Parks for People programme.

Opened in 1906, many of the parks original features are deteriorating and are in danger of being lost, but this grant will help to protect their future, such as conserving the listed bandstand, restoring the 1930s pavilion and regenerating the gardens, paths and walkways throughout. The work will also see more recent additions such as the play park, tennis courts and events space being refurbished and modernised.

Revealing the grant, Paul Mullan, Head of HLF Northern Ireland, said: "It is wonderful to start the New Year by awarding this huge grant to transform and regenerate Warrenpoint Park. This vital funding will ensure the local community will be able to continue enjoying this historic park for years to come. It is a terrific boost for the area and we are delighted to be involved."

The Mayor of Newry and Mourne District Council, Councillor Michael Ruane, added: "This is fantastic news for Warrenpoint Park. The funding will allow Newry and Mourne District Council to restore the Park to its former glory, to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.

"The park has been a tremendous asset for the district and this funding will add to it as a major attraction while ensuring it retains its original features. Through the education programme it will also be an opportunity for visitors and locals to learn more about the heritage of the park and the role it has played in Warrenpoint down through the years."

(JP)