PLANS for a new residential development in the centre of Newry have been approved.
The Pearce’s Gate at Merchant’s Quay project will see 73 apartments built in the city centre.
The majority of the apartments will be two-bedroom, with 11 single bedroom units included as well as three new retail units, office space and a coffee bar.
Belfast firm Kerr Property, which is part of the Keltbray Group, is behind the development.
Planning officials at Newry, Mourne and Down District Council had recommended refusing the application over wastewater and parking provision for just 11 vehicles.
But councillors voted to approve the scheme and overrule the recommendation.
In response to the concerns over parking, Kerr Property said it will launch Newry’s first car club, giving residents of the apartments the opportunity to hire a car by the hour.
Development director, Martin Conlon said the firm is confident the project will provide a significant economic and jobs boost to the city.
“The scheme will firmly respect the heritage and historic location and regenerate a vacant and under-utilised area to create a high quality, sustainable urban development. It will also further strengthen Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s exciting plans for the continued regeneration of the city.”
