By Ryan Sands
Details of the planned Kilkeel Lower Square and River Walk Environmental Improvement Scheme have been made public.
On Monday, the council launched a consultation for the project, which “seeks to improve access to and along the Aughrim River and to provide a new play area at Rooney Road.”
Documentation reveals that the plans include “resurfacing of pedestrian footpaths, new signage, new fencing and gates, new seating areas, new lighting, and a new pedestrian connection between the river walk and the new Rooney Road play park and picnic area.”
It is also highlighted that the masterplan for the scheme has been split into three key areas, namely Lower Square and the Bridge Crossing, the River Walk, and Rooney Road play park.
Lower Square and Bridge Crossing improvements would include a new bridge crossing in the existing location, asphalt resurfacing of the footpath connection, an upgrade to the existing toilet block, a new pedestrian connection to a ramped access, a new gated access to the slipway, and the cleaning and repainting of railings.
Proposals for the River Walk portion of the site include “upgrade to path materiality and widths to create a more comfortable walking route, and seating areas to provide rest opportunities at regular intervals along the walkway, including a new picnic area at the northern entrance.”
“New lighting is proposed for the full length of the river walk to create a more welcoming environment for pedestrians and to extend use of the walk during times of low light,” a consultation document reads.
“Cutting back of existing vegetation at the Rooney Road entrance and replacement of existing fencing in disrepair will create a more attractive, visually permeable and robust boundary.
“Arrival areas and entrances have been considered as key moments to provide a welcoming point of access to the route, with provision of signage and wayfinding to clearly orientate users and provide understanding of the connection and destinations.”
The concept proposal for the improvements at Rooney Road play park includes “upgrade to existing play area and new gated accessible pedestrian connections to the play park and river walk.”
“Enhancement to the existing play area at Rooney Road will include new coloured safety surfacing, fencing to enclose the space and new play equipment,” the document adds.
“The new equipment will provide play opportunity to a wider range of ages and abilities, with the introduction of accessible play equipment.”
The existing kickabout area would be retained, whilst a new picnic area and wildflower meadow areas would be installed.
The plans can be viewed online at www.newrymournedown.org/consultations, or by visiting the Nautilus Centre between now and 1 June. Next Wednesday (27 May), the Rooney Road centre will host the scheme’s consultants and council staff, who will be available to discuss the proposal with members of the public between 4pm and 7pm.
