Greencastle Residents Oppose Lough Ferry Proposal

Residents in Greencastle, County Down, are concerned that a ferry terminal will be built on their doorstep.[/caption] Denise Cunningham, secretary of the Greencastle Area Residents’ Group, explained, “We understand this project has been in planning for over six years but there has we feel been a lack of consultation with residents.  We were first informed about this proposal in late September 2011, and there was very little information provided at that public meeting. Since that meeting the residents group have tried to engage with the developers with little success, and it was only in November 2012 that a follow up meeting was held. We requested a public meeting to be held so that all residents in the area can be provided with as much information on this proposed development. 90 per cent of local residents are opposed to it. “We believe that overall infrastructure for such a ferry development does not exist within the Greencastle area.  The road infrastructure is unable to sustain any increase in traffic.  The proposed  developed could see a potential 950 to 1400 cars per day during peak summer periods, which is a potential 40,000 vehicles in one month.  There is also the possibility commercial vehicles will make use of the ferry adding more pressure to the road network. “When the developers were questioned about any possible road improvements they stated that this would be nothing to do with them and that it was the DRD’s responsibility.  The Greencastle Pier Road itself needs major improvements, which should not be dependent on this ferry project.” Denise Cunningham then explained that their fears were compounded by the possibility  that the proposed landing site for the development on the Greencastle side is to be located in front of a medieval church and a thirteenth century Anglo-Norman Castle which was built by Hugh de Lacy.  The Association believes this development may ruin the rich and unique natural heritage that exists in the Greencastle Area. [caption id="attachment_35254" align="alignright" width="360"] A view over the area where local residents believe may be the site for a ferry terminal.[/caption] She said: “Because of the location of the proposed site, the Pier is expected to be approximately 154 meters in length, which is twice the length of the existing old wooden pier which was built in 1880.  In the past any impact study for a proposed ferry between Greencastle and Greenore always suggested that the only workable site was beyond the hamlet at Greencastle Point which would result in a smaller infrastructure and also a shorter and safer crossing time. “The sustainability of the project is also questionable when you consider similar facilities have closed over the last number of years or are heavily subsided.  Lough Foyle Ferry was carrying on average 250,000 passengers per year and could not make a profit.  The Strangford and Portaferry service which has a population living on both sides of the lough which need to use the service daily, as well as a vibrant tourist market has lost over £4 million over three years.” “Greencastle nestles at the foot of the Mourne Mountains in a corner of County Down. It is a place of rare beauty and rural charm, and it lays claim to a rich and unique natural heritage as well as a vibrant history whose legacy can be witnessed in the ruins of its medieval fortifications, listed buildings and historical structures. These are the resources which need to be developed.  The area at present is entirely residential apart from the Carlingford Lough Commissioners and a number farms.  There will be an increase in noise pollution and the local wildlife will also be affected. We are in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and an Area of Special Scientific Interest.” Sustainable tourism is required for the area added Denise. “Scenery, peace, tranquility, clean air, safe beaches, places to rest, picnic areas, walking, bird watching, wildlife, built heritage, sailing, culture, etc – Greencastle has it all.  A ferry could threaten all that Greencastle has to offer.”  ]]>