Abandonment of Road Section at Carneyhaugh Business Park, Newry

In a move to regularize an encroachment by an adjacent landowner, the Department for Infrastructure has issued an order to abandon a small section of road near the Carneyhaugh Business Park in Newry. This decision, outlined in the Carneyhaugh Business Park, Newry (Abandonment) Order (Northern Ireland) 2025, involves a 71-square-metre area beginning 27 metres southwest of the Rathfriland Road junction, extending for 19.8 metres.

Why Is This Happening?

The abandonment is primarily to address an encroachment issue. The Department, which currently owns the land, plans to declare it surplus and sell it following government procedures.

Consultation and Feedback

The proposal underwent a thorough consultation process. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Newry Mourne and Down District Council were informed and did not raise any objections. The process included public notices in local newspapers, site postings, and direct consultations with statutory undertakers and nearby landowners. The feedback was clear—no objections were received.

Impact Assessments

The Department has confirmed that there are no equality or human rights issues associated with this order, as per the requirements of the Northern Ireland Act 1998. Additionally, a Regulatory Impact Assessment was deemed unnecessary since the proposal does not affect business, charities, or voluntary organizations financially.

Final Notes

This legislative change is straightforward, with no financial or EU implications, and serves to resolve a local land management issue efficiently.