Restoration Plans For Newry’s Historic Dominican Church To Attract Tourists

Published on November 10, 2025

The local council has received documents regarding the planned restoration works to St Catherine’s Roman Catholic Church, Newry. A vital heritage asset, the church is one of the most significant sites for the confluence of architecture and religion in the Northern Ireland. Having been built more than a century and a half ago, the church is a great site to visit due to its surrounding history, culture and architectural value. These new developments will not only keep the site intact but assist in boosting the growing tourism industry in the region.

A Key Historical Landmark

St Catherine’s Church, also known as the Dominican Church of the Sacred Heart and St Catherine of Sienna, is situated in the heart of Newry. The church, which dates back to 1875, is celebrated for being Northern Ireland’s only purpose-built Dominican church and the only Dominican church in Ireland with a spire. Its Grade B+ listing highlights the church’s architectural and historical importance, which has been woven into the fabric of Newry’s cultural identity.

The restoration proposals, which are currently awaiting approval from Newry, Mourne, and Down District Council, involve extensive repairs and preservation work. The church’s roof, leadwork, sandstone surrounds, and external stonework will undergo necessary repairs, ensuring that it retains its structural integrity and visual appeal for future generations. These restoration efforts are seen as vital for the continued attraction of visitors to Newry.

The Church’s Role in Newry’s Tourism

Newry is increasingly recognised as a destination for heritage and religious tourism, with St Catherine’s Church playing a central role in this. As a popular site for visitors interested in Irish ecclesiastical architecture, the church’s restoration will further boost tourism to the area. The church’s French Gothic revival style, designed by Dublin-based architects George C Ashlin and Company, draws attention for its distinct beauty and historical charm.

The church’s involvement in community life is another element that appeals to tourists, offering a unique insight into the region’s cultural and religious heritage. With the restoration, it is expected that the church will attract more visitors, both religious pilgrims and those with an interest in architecture and history, thereby contributing positively to Newry’s local economy.

Preserving Newry’s Heritage for the Future

The proposed repairs to the church are not just about restoring a physical structure but also about safeguarding an integral part of Newry’s heritage. St Catherine’s Church continues to be a living symbol of the Dominican community’s long-standing presence in the area. The Dominican Priory, attached to the church, serves as a spiritual centre for both locals and visitors alike, further cementing the church’s role in the cultural and social life of Newry.

The proposed changes to the church include the replacement of defective plaster and repairs to its internal and external doors, as well as improvements to the rainwater goods and leaded glass windows. These works are designed to ensure that the church remains a functional space for religious services while maintaining its historical character.

Boosting the Region’s Heritage Tourism Offer

As Northern Ireland continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure, heritage sites like St Catherine’s Church are central to the appeal of the region. The church’s restoration is a part of a broader initiative to preserve historical landmarks while making them more accessible to tourists. The provision of new ramp access, along with repairs to roof timbers and structural stonework, will improve visitor experience and make the church more accessible to all.

By maintaining the church’s historical authenticity while modernising its facilities, St Catherine’s Church is poised to become an even more prominent attraction in Newry. The restoration will serve to promote Newry as a key destination for cultural and heritage tourism, which is increasingly valued by both domestic and international visitors.

A Strong Commitment to Heritage Conservation

Newry, Mourne, and Down District Council strongly supports the restoration of this church, an indicator of the region’s dedication to conserving its heritage, and St Catherine’s Church is one of the best examples of heritage sites with exceptional tourism potential due to its splendid architecture, historical importance, and prominent positioning in Newry.

As work commences, the restoration of St Catherine’s Dominican Church is expected to embody Newry’s cultural flag and Newry’s tourism potential will benefit enormously due to the increasing focus on historical preservation. The church will forever remain a part of Newry’s rich religious heritage and architectural marvel, allowing the future generations to view the past while Newry’s tourism industry will gain more vibrancy as a result.