Plans to enhance the Dunleath Urban Sports Park in Downpatrick have been officially approved by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

Following a recommendation from the Strategy, Policy and Resources Committee in late January, the Council ratified the proposal on 2 February. The upcoming works will focus on improving access to St Patrick's Avenue, installing new park benches, and adding fencing along Russell Park. The project also includes essential drainage work to maintain the site.

The sports park was originally developed at a cost of £439,000, funded by the Department for Communities (DfC) with Council support. Since its opening, the facility—which features an 80-metre pump track and a skate park equipped with ramps and grind rails—has become a popular hub for local families and young people. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, welcomed the move: "The urban sports park has been an outstanding success since it opened and is attracting more young people to the town. The park is helping deliver many benefits for Downpatrick and the wider district, providing not only an extremely popular facility, but encouraging active and healthy lifestyles."

Councillor Campbell noted that the park is a priority of the Downpatrick Living High Streets initiative and is supported by the Downpatrick Regeneration Working Group. He added: "The new park is a key element of the ongoing regeneration of Downpatrick and further investment in a new access and seating will widen its appeal, making one of the best facilities of its kind even better."

The project will be funded by the DfC with match funding provided by the Council. A spokesperson for the Department for Communities added: "The park has been a huge success since it opened, and the additional investment will widen its appeal. The park is a key element of plans to regenerate Downpatrick town centre, with the facility supporting health, community, and economic growth in the area."

The planned improvements remain subject to final planning approval.