The long awaited Co Down development has attracted concerns on its size with the public due to be consulted on designs
Plans to develop the new Newcastle Leisure Centre have taken a significant step forward behind closed doors of the council.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s (NMDDC) strategy, policy and resources committee approved the appointment of a consultancy team on Thursday night (Oct 16).
The committee discussed the major project during an hour of confidential debate with 13 items in total kept away from public view.
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In open session, committee chairperson, Oonagh Hanlon (Sinn Fein) said: “Newcastle Leisure Centre…it was agreed to approve the appointment of the integrated consultancy team (ICT) to progress the delivery of the new leisure centre on the Newcastle site following the recent procurement exercise.”
The committee had previously been told the ICT was expected to be in place by the end of August, start of September with an expectation for a historical rock pool to also be developed at the same time. But, there was no mention of the Grade 2 listed seafront feature in the chamber this week.
An estimate of £20m for both projects has been reported to the council chamber (June).
The new leisure complex is set to be built at the rear and to the side of the existing Newcastle Centre at Central Promenade.
The development will also see the demolition of the existing outdoor Tropicana children’s pool.
Mournes councillors had previously raised size issues on the designs for the new centre being too small leading to a request for further scrutiny on rejected sites.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) understands the new centre will include an indoor leisure pool, a three lane pool and a heated play pool for children as well as a modern gymnasium.
It is also understood that there will be a full public consultation on the design of the scheme.
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