‘Frustration’ on wait for investment relief to help Downpatrick

15 January 2025

THE Workers’ Party is calling for major investment for Downpatrick.

Local party representative Colm Mullan says residents and business owners are “frustrated and angry” that it has taken so long to get the town up and running since the devastating floods in November 2023.

Mr Mullan said the damage caused by the flooding “ripped the heart out of the town” and that urgent help was needed.

He continued: “While one-off payments are always welcome, what is really needed is long-term relief to help rebuild the trade in the town centre as the main shopping and business hub for the greater Downpatrick area.

“Rates in Downpatrick are the highest in Co Down apart from Bangor and in some cases rates are higher than rents.

“Several shops have been forced to close, and some have not reopened since the flood. Urgent interventions are what is needed to halt the decline of Downpatrick town centre.”

Mr Mullan said the people of Downpatrick and the surrounding areas were “sick and tired” of being sidelined and ignored.

“They are continuously having to fight for crumbs from the table,” he said. “Their health facilities are always under threat despite having prominent levels of poverty and multiple deprivations, lower life expectancy, mental health issues and overall health inequalities.”

Mr Mullan said “sustainable well-paid jobs, more public housing and help with rates and rents for local businesses” were needed to start dealing with some of the major problems faced by communities.

“Experts in the field believe that when rural towns and communities are allowed to become run down and neglected it creates multiple problems for future generations,” he insisted.

Mr Mullan added: “The people of Downpatrick and surrounding areas deserve better than this, urgent action is needed now. Our politicians have talked the talk, it is now time to walk the walk. It is now time for action.”

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