The piece of unused land in the North Street Flats area of Newry has officially opened as a free car park. Last week the Democrat revealed that the land was to be opened as a car park for the next two years as part of a deal between Newry City Centre Management, the Council, and the Department of Social Development (DSD) who own the land. The site which now features new lighting and has space for around 115 cars, officially opened on Friday. Mayor of Newry and Mourne District Council John McArdle said he was delighted to be present at the official opening of the North Street Car Park. “I would like to congratulate the Department of Social Development for providing the necessary funding to open the car park in the Newry City Centre area.,” he said. Also present at the opening was DSD representative Damien Mulholland who called on the people of Newry to make use of the facility. Gary Stokes, Deputy Chairman of Newry City Centre Management said the group was very excited about the provision of the much needed car parking in the City Centre. “The City Centre Management Committee is very grateful for DSD for providing the necessary funding to make this initiative happen,” he said. Cathal Austin President of Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade also backed the initiative. “We hope this innovative project will assist in increasing footfall in the city centre and improve the economic future of retailers during the current economic crisis,” he said. The North Street Car Park is open daily from 8am to 9pm and is free. Users should note that the car park is locked each evening.
Newry Democrat
29th January 3013
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