‘Public parks strategy must be in programme for government’ – McNulty
SDLP MLA for Newry and Armagh Justin McNulty has said he wants to see a future Programme for Government commit to the publication of a Public / City Parks Strategy.
McNulty has been a strong advocate of the development of a City Park in Newry and has pledged his full support to the Albert Basin Park Project Group.
Speaking to Newry Times, McNulty said, “The Albert Basin Park Group in Newry have a fantastic vision for a modern public park in Newry. I want Stormont, both in policy and practical terms, to help make that vision a reality.
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“The benefits from the development of public parks are multiple, in terms of tourism potential, health benefits and indeed environmental benefits. All over the world, authorities have developed or protected green space in the heart of cities and towns.
“I believe such a development in Newry would be a fantastic facility for everyone. We have the opportunity at the Albert Basin to leave a legacy that future generations will thank us for,” he insisted.
“I have already highlighted the crowds of people who use the Mall in Armagh City either to walk around or where in the summer months, young people of all ages and creeds are playing all ranges of sport.
“In recent years the opening up of the Palace Grounds in the city as a Public Park has been a huge success. It has beautiful walkways, a fantastic play facility and an amazing restaurant. There is a very popular Park Run group who use the facility every week and all ages enjoy the beautiful grounds whilst being physically active.
“The Albert Basin Park Group have a fantastic vision for Newry and it must be supported, by the public, by council and by Stormont. With the development of such a park comes costs and Stormont should help carry the burden of those costs.
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The local MLA added, “I want to see a future Executive develop and publish a strategy which would encourage the development of Public Parks, including setting aside finance to support their development. This can only happen if it is committed to in a Programme for Government and I want to see that happen.”
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