Plans for generator building in Newcastle

Plans for generator building in Newcastle

26 July 2023

PLANNERS have paved the way for an old generator house at Newcastle harbour to be redeveloped to provide a new community building.

The Newcastle Harbour Heritage Association is behind the innovative proposal which will see their building transformed to provide a committee room, toilets and changing facilities to serve the varied needs of the harbour community. 

Planning permission for the proposal has been welcomed by South Down MLA Colin McGrath and Mournes councillor Laura Devlin.

Mr McGrath said the regeneration of the old generator house will make a “significant difference” to the harbour area and will be something people can enjoy for generations to come.

Cllr Devlin praised the Harbour Heritage Association for bringing together all of the various users at the harbour so they are speaking with one collective voice about the changes that are required.

“Harbour users feel that they have been forgotten about in terms of government investment,” she said.

“When we look at the activity that now takes place at the harbour, investment is needed and soon and approval for the planning application is so welcome as the local community is taking ownership of their area and showing the sort of leadership we would expect of a functioning government.”