Get cycle path plan into gear

Get cycle path plan into gear

28 July 2021

ROADS officials have been asked to provide new dedicated cycle paths to link Newcastle with Dundrum and Castlewellan.

The appeal — issued by South Down MP Chris Hazzard — is being supported by local councillors Willie Clarke, Roísín Howell and Cathy Mason.

Mr Hazzard said the new cycle paths would not only be a great asset for visitors, but also have the potential to transform the lives of the local community. 

The MP said the delivery of safe cycle routes in these areas would give people the “freedom and confidence” to walk and cycle as part of their everyday routine.

“Newcastle and the surrounding area, including Dundrum and Castlewellan, attracts a huge number of visitors throughout the year and also has a very active local community who regularly use our outdoor spaces, mountains and forest parks,” he continued.

“However, there is a real shortage of off-road greenways or cycle paths in the local area. One such area is between Castlewellan and Newcastle where there is huge potential to upgrade the existing path to promote greater active travel links between the towns.”

Mr Hazzard said there is also potential for the scenic Newcastle to Dundrum route. 

“Hugging the coast between Dundrum Bay and Murlough nature reserve, an off road cycle path would lend itself to some spectacular scenery and tourism attractions,” he contended.

“Indeed, opening up these stunning routes in the Mourne area would not only help encourage healthy sustainable tourism, but would be a much welcome green infrastructure asset for the community in Dundrum, Castlewellan and Newcastle which would benefit immeasurably on a daily basis.”

Mr Hazzard says he has asked Stormont infrastructure minister Nichola Mallon to prioritise what he believes would be relatively low-cost schemes “which would have a long-lasting positive benefit for our local community.”