Scott Wilson was commissioned to prepare a scheme to help reinstate Newcastle as Northern Ireland’s premier seaside resort. Newcastle now has a modern, exciting and cohesive appearance whilst reflecting the natural heritage of the area. The design, which includes new lighting and seating, mirrors the natural surroundings of the mountains and waves, allowing direct access on to the beach from the main street.

A wave wall, helping to protect the town from the effects of high tides and storms, has been incorporated and an elegant, modern steel footbridge replaces the original concrete bridge.

The key objectives of the scheme were to improve the overall environmental quality of the centre and seafront of Newcastle. In preparing the design, the landscape architects sought to improve and increase pedestrian space and linkages with imaginative and innovative proposals that were practical, realistic and robust – an important consideration.

The project is acting as a catalyst for the rejuvenation of Newcastle, encouraging private investment, as a visitor destination and the gateway to the Mournes.