A city park for Newry moving a step closer is tribute to the hard work of campaigners, Alliance Newry and Armagh spokesperson Jackie Coade has said.

Ms Coade said the proposal for £16.2 million to be provided towards creation of the Albert Basin Park was a move in the right direction. It is part of the Executive’s draft Budget, which is going out to consultation today (Monday), and would also see money provided by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

“This is great news and a step closer to the realisation of this dream,” said Ms Coade.

“It is also a tribute to the hard work of so many campaigners over a number of years. It has taken many sleepless nights to get to this stage and now we are nearer to the people of Newry having a much-needed green space in the city.

“I want to express my deep gratitude to my Alliance colleague Patrick Brown for bringing the original motion to Council calling for this park, and to my party colleague Helena Young for advocating so passionately on this issue.

“Alliance’s Green New Deal talks about the use of green spaces to not only help people’s health but promote the local economy. The realisation of the Albert Basin Park is an opportunity for the people of Newry to have that same chance.”