Down News
News
Mourne Mountains Designated UNESCO Global Geopark – The stunning mountain range has been awarded UNESCO status, promising a tourism boost for the region. Meanwhile, Bangor Marina reports record boat traffic as the summer sailing season begins, with visitor numbers up 25% from 2024.
Business News
Harland & Wolff Secures £200 Million Wind Farm Contract – The Belfast shipyard (with major Down operations) will build turbine foundations for a North Sea project, creating 150 skilled jobs. Newry’s First Derivatives expands its fintech hub in Downpatrick, adding 80 high-tech roles.
Economic News
County Down’s unemployment rate drops to 2.7%, the lowest in Northern Ireland, driven by growth in renewable energy and agri-food sectors. House prices in affluent areas like Holywood surge by 12%, while Downpatrick sees more modest growth at 6%.
Political News
Row Over A2 Coastal Road Upgrade – Environmentalists protest plans to widen the scenic route near Newcastle, warning of damage to dunes. Down District Council approves £10 million for St. Patrick’s Trail enhancements ahead of 2026’s major anniversary.
Election News
South Down by-election heats up as Sinn Féin and SDLP clash over rural healthcare and fishing rights. Polls show the nationalist vote split, giving the Alliance Party an outside chance.
Employment News
Kearney Mushrooms in Comber recruits 50 seasonal workers for expanded production. Ulster Hospital launches emergency nursing recruitment drive with £3,000 relocation bonuses. A green energy jobs fair in Newtownards on June 25th will showcase 200 vacancies.
Business News
Shares in Newry-based Norbrook Pharmaceuticals rise 5% after FDA approval. Strangford Lough Ferry operator sees 8% growth in summer bookings. Investors watch Harland & Wolff as it expands into offshore wind.
Forecast
-
Wed (18 Jun): Sunny, 19°C
-
Thu (19 Jun): Light rain, 17°C
-
Fri (20 Jun): Showers, 16°C
-
Sat (21 Jun): Cloudy, 18°C
-
Sun (22 Jun): Sunny spells, 20°C
-
Mon (23 Jun): Thunderstorms, 18°C
-
Tue (24 Jun): Partly cloudy, 19°C
Entertainment News
Open House Festival returns to Bangor with rs Snow Patrol and Dermot Kennedy. Downpatrick’s St. Patrick’s Centre debuts an immersive VR experience tracing the saint’s journey through Ireland.
Upcoming Events in County Down (June 29 – July 5, 2025)
-
June 20: Newcastle Seafood Festival (Harbourfront)
-
June 21: Ards International Guitar Festival (Newtownards)
-
June 22: Strangford Lough Regatta (Sailing races)
-
June 24: Downpatrick Folk Festival (Town centre sessions)
-
June 26: Castlewellan Agricultural Show (Forest Park)
-
June 28: Warrenpoint Blues Festival (Marina stages)
-
June 29: Hillsborough Castle Garden Party (Royal event)
-
July 1: Comber Potato Festival (Heritage celebrations)
-
July 3: Bangor Maritime Week (Tall ship visits)
-
July 5: Mourne International Walking Festival (Guided hikes)
Transport Alert:
town Update:
Note: County Down is in Northern Ireland, not England – content reflects Northern Irish context.
Stay updated with the latest from the Mourne County!
|