Southern Regional College, together with officials from Department for the Economy, Felix O’Hare and Co. Limited and McAdam Design marked the official start of construction of the new £14.5 million Newry Innovation Centre with a sod cutting ceremony today.
The two-storey, 2,223m² building will be located on the former car park of the Newry East Campus on Patrick Street, previously known as the site of Newry Sports Centre. The development is set to deliver a modern, vibrant education facility designed to support teaching and learning across the wider community for years to come.
Felix O’Hare and Co. Limited, the appointed contractor, is leading the project and is expected to generate valuable employment opportunities for local people, including many Apprenticeships and Higher Level Apprenticeships roles.
Fully funded by the Department for the Economy, the Innovation Centre, designed by McAdam Design, plans to open its doors in September 2027. Once completed, it will include purpose-built project based learning areas, collaborative workspaces and breakout zones, all designed with a strong emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency.
Mrs. Lee Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College said:
“I am delighted to see the Newry Innovation Centre project now reach this significant milestone. The College remains committed to building a strong educational future offering inclusive, high quality learning experiences while investing in cutting-edge, modern, and pioneering facilities that align with regional needs and progression pathways.
This is an exciting time for Southern Regional College, the city of Newry and the wider region, and I look forward to seeing the project take shape in the months ahead.”
Mr. Ian Snowden, Permanent Secretary, Department for the Economy said:
“I am pleased to be in Newry today to celebrate an important milestone for this project, which is being funded by the Department for the Economy. The construction of this new, state of the art campus will contribute to the Department’s economic priorities, creating valuable employment and apprenticeship opportunities. I look forward to seeing the project develop into a vibrant educational environment that will inspire many.”
Attending today’s event and representing Felix O’Hare and Company Limited, Mark Campbell, Managing Director said:
“It's a privilege to be appointed as main contractor for the Newry Innovation Centre. Felix O'Hare is a Newry firm, and a project of this importance, built in our own city, means a great deal to everyone on the team. We'll be recruiting locally right through the build. That includes a number of apprenticeships and Higher Level Apprenticeships, giving young people here the chance to train on a major scheme and to build a career without having to leave the area. Skilled trades take years to develop, and projects like this one are how it's done. We're looking forward to delivering a best in class facility that Newry can be proud of."