The first phase of the £4m promenade scheme opened on Friday 23 December 2005. Phase I, the largest and longest phase of a three part project, opened ahead of schedule, thanks to the good weather this autumn.

Mr Winston Reid, Building Services Manager is delighted to see the first phase opened, and he said, “Phase I runs from the edge of the Tropicana along to the Glen River. We have raised the level of the promenade, removed the wall between the promenade and the street, improved the level of the sea defences with a new wave wall, improved the access to the beach for everyone, as well as enhancing the appearance of the area with flowerbeds. However, I would appeal to the public to keep of the grass in order to give the grass time to knit between now and Easter. The fences around the flowerbeds are temporary and will come down”.

The complete project is scheduled to be finished in time for the summer.

Black Rock, Newcastle

A MAJOR improvement scheme at Black Rock, on the southern approach to Newcastle, has been completed.
The £40,000 Department for Social Development-funded project, at the point linking Central Promenade and South Promenade, provides a new viewing area, upgraded pathways, seating and fencing.
Down Council chairman Carmel O’Boyle hopes the improvement “will bring back some of the old nostalgia that local people and visitors enjoyed whilst walking along the shoreline.”
She stated: “The Council also has plans to enhance the main road through the town. These developments will provide a much more attractive environment and encourage more people to take advantage of the facilities offered in Newcastle.
“We are delighted with the improvements to the Black Rock, and are grateful to DSD for their financial assistance with the scheme.
“This area can be enjoyed by everyone, as the new improvements provide access from the harbour side for people with disabilities.”
The completion of the refurbishment work was also welcomed by Newcastle Councillor Willie Clarke, who described it as a “significant improvement.”
“I should like to commend the contractors, who have done a first class job,” remarked Cllr Clarke.
“I will be seeking additional funding for the erection of new lighting, which is badly needed.”
Both Councillors praised Down Council officers Mark Bridges and Winston Reid for progressing the scheme.

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