A view of Newport town. (Image from Google Maps)

Draft plan for development of Newport to go on public display

A BLUEPRINT for the future development of Newport will go on public display in the next week.

A draft village design statement has been drawn up and members of the public will be invited to make submissions on its proposals.

Local councillors supported putting it out to public consultation when they met today, having been given a presentation on the proposals earlier at a workshop.

Councillor Brendan Mulroy hailed it as a 'fantastic project' for Newport and he urged people to make submissions or contact local councillors with their views.

The plan, said Councillor Peter Flynn, would take Newport to a different level and it could become the hub for walking in the county.

The Great Western Greenway passes through it, there are the Burrishoole walks locally, and the Bangor Trail, and he cited how the links it could create into north Mayo – Ballycroy, Belmullet, the Ceide Fields and on into Ballina – were important.

Councillor John O'Malley agreed the project would be great for Newport.

Also urging the local community to get involved and see what is proposed, Councillor Paul McNamara said Newport is in the heart of the greenway and ideally situated as a place for people to come and live in.

Director of services Ms. Catherine McConnell said the draft plan sets out a blueprint for how Newport can develop and realise its potential as a tourism hub and residential place, with a high quality of life and access to services.

She too encouraged people to engage and give their feedback on what is proposed.