A major new recreational hub at Camlough Lake has been recommended for approval by planners, in what is being described as a “significant investment” in outdoor sport and tourism for south Armagh.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s planning department has advised that full permission should be granted for the multi-use facility on lands to the east of Camlough Lake, off Newtown Road, subject to a comprehensive set of conditions.
If approved by councillors next week, the scheme – promoted and launched by the council itself in 2024– would deliver a single-storey hub building with changing and shower facilities, storage for kayaks and other watersports equipment, an events and exhibition space, meeting room, small kitchen, and external covered area with barbeque and fire pit. Outside, the plans include a new slipway and floating pontoon, kayak launch, picnic areas, upgraded access roads, turning area, bus and car parking, extensive landscaping and low-level lighting.
In total, 69 car parking spaces are proposed, including seven disabled bays, along with four coach bays and 10 cycle stands. Operating hours are indicated as 6am to 10pm, seven days a week.
Located within the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the site sits beside Camlough Lake.
The planning report acknowledges the environmental sensitivity of the location and confirms that a detailed suite of ecological, drainage, flood risk, transport, archaeological and air quality assessments has been carried out.
Specialist consultees, including the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) Roads, NI Water, Northern Ireland Electricity, the Loughs Agency, the council’s Environmental Health department and DAERA’s Water Management Unit, have all indicated they have no objection in principle.
The council confirms that no third-party representations were lodged following neighbour notification or the statutory press advertisement.
A pre-application community consultation process was carried out in line with major application requirements, with a consultation report submitted.
Planners also note that a large part of the existing open space on site is currently underused
In its conclusion, the report states: “The proposed development represents a significant investment in Camlough Lake and through the balancing of environmental, economic and social matters and necessary mitigation will provide a sustainable development for this part of South Armagh.”
Planners say the hub will enhance facilities for existing users, support outdoor sport and recreation, boost tourism within the Ring of Gullion AONB and deliver accessible, year-round community space.
The application now proceeds to elected members for determination on February 25, with planning officers formally recommending that permission be granted, subject to more than 20 detailed conditions covering roads, drainage, ecology, landscaping, archaeology and construction management.
Read more: First look at proposed state-of-the-art recreation hub at Camlough Lake
Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Aoife Finnegan and Councillor Declan Murphy welcomed the recommendation describing it as a vital project and a major boost for Camlough and communities across South Armagh.
Ms Finnegan said: “This is a hugely positive decision and a vital project for South Armagh. This development has been underway for some time and was pushed forward through sustained engagement by Sinn Féin, including the work of Conor Murphy MLA back in 2017 to ensure Camlough Lake was prioritised and this investment delivered.”
Councillor Declan Murphy added: “This Recreational Hub is about local delivery and real benefit for local people. It will create opportunities for families, young people, and sports clubs, support tourism and small businesses, and provide a shared space the community can be proud of.
“I also want to acknowledge the role played by local community groups and clubs whose advocacy and support were central to getting this project over the line.
“I look forward to this decision being formally ratified at committee on Wednesday and progressing again in March.”
Both representatives said the project reflects a strong commitment to practical delivery, community-led development, and protecting South Armagh’s natural assets while improving access for everyone.
The Newry and Armagh MLA concluded: “Sinn Féin is committed to delivering the Camlough Lake Recreational Hub and to continuing to drive investment into our local communities right across Newry and Armagh.”
