The ambitious proposals from Newry and Mourne District Council to restore the Victorian park to its former glory have received a £932,000 grant through the Heritage Lottery Fund’s (HLF) Parks for People programme.

Opened in 1906, many of the parks original features are deteriorating and are in danger of being lost. This new project will safeguard the future of these historic features - conserving the listed bandstand, restoring the 1930s pavilion and regenerating the gardens, paths and walkways throughout.  More recent additions such as the play park, tennis courts and events space will also be refurbished and modernised. 

Announcing the award, Head of HLF Northern Ireland, Paul Mullan, said: “It is wonderful to start the New Year by awarding this huge grant to transform and regenerate Warrenpoint Park. This vital funding will ensure the local community will be able to continue enjoying this historic park for years to come. It is a terrific boost for the area and we are delighted to be involved.”

Events and activities such as a heritage education programme, graduate placements and a volunteer scheme will be developed to encourage existing and new users to have a greater role in the future management and protection of the park. 

Welcoming the news, the Mayor of Newry and Mourne District Council, Councillor Michael Ruane, added: “This is fantastic news for Warrenpoint Park. The funding will allow Newry and Mourne District Council to restore the Park to its former glory, to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. The park has been a tremendous asset for the district and this funding will add to it as a major attraction while ensuring it retains its original features. Through the education programme it will also be an opportunity for visitors and locals to learn more about the heritage of the park and the role it has played in Warrenpoint down through the years.

“On behalf of the counciI I would like to take this opportunity of thanking the HLF for this funding and as Mayor I will ensure the project is delivered to a high standing. I would also like to acknowledge the role which Warrenpoint Chamber of Commerce played in developing this application.”
 

Notes to editors

This announcement can be followed on Twitter #parksmatter

The Parks for People programme uses Lottery funds to support the regeneration, conservation and increased enjoyment of public parks and cemeteries. Parks for People applications are assessed in two rounds. A first-round pass is given when HLF has endorsed outline proposals and earmarked funding. A first-round pass may also include an immediate award to fund the development of the project. Detailed proposals are then considered by HLF at second-round and as long as plans have progressed satisfactorily and according to the original proposal, an award for the project is confirmed.

Since 1994 the Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded £184million to over 1,000 projects across Northern Ireland.

Further information

Please contact Julie Halliday at HLF (NI) on 07733 100 674, email: julieh@hlf.org.uk.