Site of former car showroom to be redeveloped

NEWRY BID manager Eamonn Connolly has welcomed plans which could see the redevelopment of a number of disused properties along Merchants Quay.The plans, which have been submitted on the part of Parkgate Developments Ltd, will if given approval see extensive work be carried out along the site situated along the Merchants Quay in the city wherein many premises have lain vacant for the past several years.This includes the site of a former car showroom which could be redeveloped into residential premises if plans are passed. Welcoming the proposals Mr Connolly stated that anything that puts derelict property back into use is a positive step forward. "We obviously welcome the regeneration of any derelict property" said Eamonn"I am keen to see that it is a mixed use development with affordable housing and private housing as well "Anything that puts derelict property back into use is a positive step forward." "All our urban centres are afflicted with the blight of urban vacancy. This poses a challenge in relation to the eyesore, the lack of economic activity, the scope of anti-social behaviour where if redevelopment if done constructively gives you the opportunity to reimagine our town centres."If we can turn the tide and encourage regeneration in the town centre and the repopulation of the town centre particularly with affordable housing that would be a very positive step forward.The plans for Merchants Quay will include the proposed demolition of the premises situated at 48-54 Merchants Quay to allow for the provision of a mixed-use development which will also comprise the retention, refurbishment and alterations and change of use of the Listed Building situated at 47 Merchant’s Quay. This will see the construction of two new townhouses at Merchant's Quay and change of use of 46 Merchant’s Quay to allow for one ground floor office with two apartments above, plus the erection of 24 number additional residential units in a mix of apartments and duplex apartments.