Centre plans edge forward

Centre plans edge forward

11 September 2024

PLANS for a new leisure centre in Newcastle have taken a significant step forward.

It has been confirmed that consultants are expected to be appointed before the end of the year to take forward the detailed design process for the multi-million pound project which will include an indoor swimming pool and heated children’s play area.

Local politicians were last week presented with concept designs for the new leisure facility which will be constructed to the rear and to the side of the Newcastle Centre and likely include an ultra-modern gymnasium.

Redeveloping the existing centre has been ruled out, but some interior reconfiguration work is planned in tandem with the proposed new build.

Demolition work to bulldoze a rear extension at the Newcastle Centre to pave the way for a major new leisure complex has been completed, with the construction of the new multi-million pound leisure facility expected to result in the removal of the outdoor Tropicana children’s play pool.

The Recorder understands that it could be several years before the new leisure centre opens given the time to work up detailed designs, earmark finance, secure planning approval and complete detailed public consultation.

In addition to an update on the eagerly-awaited new leisure centre, councillors have also been provided with a progress report on the future of the outdoor Rock Pool at South Promenade in the resort.

Plans to refurbish the crumbling seawater pool — which has been closed for over four years —  are progressing to the planning stage with council officials exploring potential external funding opportunities to finance the scheme.

In addition, consultations about the future of the pool are continuing with the Environment Agency and NI Water.

It was claimed last month that the final bill for the two major leisure projects could be in the region of £30m, with suggestions that the anticipated £11m cost of an ultra-modern new leisure facility could almost double to £20m, while the final bill to restore the Rock Pool could be as high as £7m.

Mournes councillors Laura Devlin and Willie Clarke have welcomed progress on the new leisure projects.

Cllr Devlin said plans for the new leisure facility have been “literally years in the making” with last week’s progress update coming not before time.

“Last Friday we were presented with concept drawings for a new redeveloped leisure centre and I am delighted that these new plans include a swimming pool as well as a wet fun area for children among other much-needed facilities,” she continued.

“For too long, the people of Newcastle and our surrounding area have waited patiently for the council to move on a new centre so I am delighted to see plans on paper and a recommendation to move to the next stage with an associated timeline.” 

Cllr Devlin added: “I know we have been here before and many people have lost faith, but I do now feel that there is now a definitive direction of travel.

“Officers will now seek approval within the next two months for the funding to move forward with detailed designs, public consultation and ultimately a planning application.”

Cllr Clarke said he was delighted the delivery of a new leisure centre will progress to the design stage and preparation for a planning application.

“The refurbishment of the Rock Pool is also advancing to the planning application stage, enabling the council to investigate external funding and Sinn Féin will only support the full restoration of this historic asset,” he declared.

“The Rock Pool is at the heart of the ‘old town’ in Newcastle and plays a vital role in maintaining built heritage in the historical area. It must be protected, restored, and enjoyed by the local community.”

Cllr Clarke also welcomed the refurbishment of three public toilet facilities in the resort and the provision of a so-called all ability changing places facility, explaining the local authority is now preparing for the introduction of all-ability access to Newcastle beach. 

A Newry, Mourne and Down Council spokeswoman confirmed that proposals for the redevelopment of the Newcastle Leisure Centre are currently being progressed.

She said that, once complete, they will be presented to councillors for consideration in the coming weeks and that further updates will be provided.