Minister asked to assist in ambitious plans for military base redevelopment

by
Micheal McKenna
December 3, 2014

Rural Development Minister Michelle O’Neill has been asked to assist in the next stage of the redevelopment of the former military barracks at Forkhill.

Plans include community and leisure facilities, as well as a crèche, 3G pitch and business units which, Newry and Armagh Sinn Fein MLA Megan Fearon says will “help grow the local economy”.

She explained: “I met recently with members of the Forkhill and District Development Association (FADDA) and officials from Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill’s department to discuss the group’s plans for the former British military site at Forkhill.

“FADDA are currently working with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to regenerate this important site for the benefit of the local community.”

The MLA said that, following on from the meeting, she has now written to Minister Michelle O’Neill asking for the assistance of her department in progressing this key regeneration project to the next stage.

“I recognise the commitment the Minister and her department have already demonstrated to this project,” said Ms Fearon.

“They have recognised the importance of this regeneration to the local community, and look forward to working with them to progress this project.”