Design team selected to transform Newry centre

The proposed development will see the construction of a new theatre/conference facility and a civic hub alongside public realm in Newry and forms part of the Belfast City Region Deal infrastructure project.

Newry Mourne & Down District Council has appointed Hamilton Architects as it bids to regenerate the city’s historic core, promote opportunities for further investment from the public and private sectors, and increase Newry’s attractiveness as a place to live, visit and do business.

Subject to various statutory approvals and securing contractor teams, construction of the theatre/ conference facility and civic hub projects are scheduled to commence in mid-2020.

The appointment of Hamilton Architects for both projects is the result of two EU procurement competitions which attracted submissions from across Ireland, England and Scotland.

The two multi-disciplinary teams include Edmond Shipway as project managers and quantity surveyors, RPS Ireland as civil and structural engineers, and Troup Bywater & Anders as mechanical and electrical engineers.

Commenting on behalf of Hamilton Architects, Paul Millar, Partner, said: “We are delighted to be leading the design team on these prestigious regeneration projects.

“We are already working with the council on other projects, so we are pleased to be able to continue what is a very positive relationship.”

Hamilton Architects are award-winning architects based in Northern Ireland with offices in Belfast, Londonderry and London.

Their portfolio of work includes Crescent Arts Centre, Kingspan Stadium and SERC (South Eastern Regional College) Performing Arts Centre. Hamilton were architects for the Down Arts Centre, Queen’s University Riddel Hall and the DEARA headquarters in Limavady.

Council chairman councillor Mark Murnin said: “I am delighted to hear that Hamilton Architects have been selected as the designers for Newry’s new theatre/conference facility and civic hub projects.

“I look forward to seeing their proposals that will help to regenerate our city for the benefit of residents, businesses and visitors.”

Liam Hannaway, chief executive, Newry Mourne & Down District Council, welcomed the announcement, saying the regeneration project is a major investment and reflects the council’s aim to regenerate the city’s core, and increase its vibrancy.