Upgrade of the Picturesque Jane’s Shore Pathway in Downpatrick now Completed
A popular, picturesque pathway stretching 1km along the Quoile River in Downpatrick has now been re-opened to the public following completion of a major upgrade.
Jointly backed by Newry, Mourne and Down Council under its Capital Programme fund and COVID Capital Reserves, and the Department for Infrastructure (DFI)’s funding contribution towards greenways, the project targeted the section known locally as ‘Jane’s Shore’.
This well used route, which runs from the Belfast Road layby to Killyleagh Road Bridge along the Quoile River, has been in very poor condition. The funding allowed for the upgrading and widening of the pathway surface, improved disabled access, the replacement of raised decking areas and the installation of new boundary fencing and gates along the entire 1km of path.
Talking at the official reopening of the upgraded pathway, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Valarie Harte said, “During the pandemic existing public rights of way and walking trails experienced an increase in use as local communities across the district benefitted from the countryside and recreational facilities. The Council used this as an opportunity, under its COVID Recovery Initiative, to instigate the maintenance, improvement and biodiversity works of a number of rights of way projects and I am delighted to see the first of these being completed.
“This scheme offers an Active Travel linkage for the benefit of both locals and visitors alike. The completion of this project is a huge opportunity to develop further linkages along the Quoile River within Downpatrick, touching on many of its key historic sites.”
Eileen Cowan from the Department for Infrastructure said, “Walking, cycling and wheeling provide many proven health benefits as well as sustainable transport methods. We are fully supportive of working with our partners across our society to continue to create opportunities for active travel, which are not only good for people but are also good for our planet. Jayne’s Shore is one of those new places which will enhance the local environment and provide an outdoor space offering new opportunities for many in this historic County Down town.”
As well as acknowledging the funders, contractors, consultants and landowners, the Council wishes to recognise the patience and support of the local community in regards the overall timeframe for the development and implementation of this project.