Sinn Féin to challenge disposal of Raymond McCreesh Park

by Gráinne Connolly

Sinn Féin has confirmed it will use a "call-in" procedure, in a bid to halt Newry, Mourne and Down District Council's plans to sell off Raymond McCreesh Park. 

The play area has caused controversy since it was renamed after the former IRA man in 2001. 

Last week the local council revealed it was putting the site up for sale.

Following a report into play park provision in the district, it was decided the park would be disposed and replaced with a new park nearby.

There are also plans to build 200 new houses in the area.

Sinn Féin has since announced it will challenge this decision with a "call-in", which allows councillors to request an issue to be reexamined if they feel it wasn't handled correctly or if it would affected members of the community. 

Councillor Liz Kimmins says her party wants a public consultation regarding the matter, for residents to share their views: 

“The Council decision to dispose of Raymond McCreesh Park without community consultation is against with the wishes of local residents in the Barcroft and Ballybot areas. 

“At last Monday’s meeting Sinn Féin opposed the disposal based on concerns raised by local residents and community groups and proposed a full community consultation.

“This was rejected by the SDLP and unionist parties which is hardly surprising given that they have always wished to remove the name of Raymond McCreesh Park. 

“Despite the fact that ten play parks in Newry & Mourne Council area have been declared as surplus assets, Raymond McCreesh is the only one that has been fast-tracked for disposal. 

“Sinn Féin have decided to call-in the motion to sell off the park in order to allow for further investigation and to ensure the voices of residents are heard."