A proposal has been tabled for the installation of a rainbow crossing to be installed in Newry city centre as a symbol of support for the local LGBT+ community.
SDLP councillor Doire Finn has written to Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins, proposing that a rainbow crossing be incorporated into planned repair works at the zebra crossing at Sugar Island.
Councillor Finn said: “Installing a rainbow crossing in Newry would be a powerful and visible gesture of solidarity with our LGBT+ community.
“It would also brighten up our city centre and build on the momentum of last year’s Pride event, which returned to our city after an absence thanks to the brilliant work of the Newry LGBT+ Women’s Group.
“We’ve seen rainbow crossings embraced in other parts of the North, where they’ve become not just sources of pride for local residents, but tourist attractions in their own right, with many people stopping to take photos and admire the crossings.
“With repair work already needed at the Sugar Island crossing, this feels like the perfect opportunity to deliver a meaningful and inclusive addition to the city.
“If that location isn’t feasible, I’ve asked the Minister to consider an alternative site in Newry where a rainbow crossing could stand as a permanent symbol of the diversity and openness that makes our city great.”
