As many people will know, Newry is getting a new theatre, which is great news for our theatre and arts community in Newry. For this to happen, and much to my nostalgic dismay, the Sean Hollywood Arts Centre will be demolished. This building holds memories for many people who spent time there, I had so many happy summers learning about theatre and making lifelong friends.

Last year I applied to council to retain Sean's name on the new facility, and this week I found out that council have rejected my application.

So that's why I'm starting this petition. Sean's legacy in the arts is unparalleled. He dedicated his life to teaching young people their stage craft, nurturing talent and creating future stars of stage and screen.

In any other city on this island, It would be a no brainer to honour a theatrical legacy but council policy is flying in the face of what people in this city want.

That's why I'm asking you to sign this petition so that I can bring the strength of feeling this city and the wider district and island have directly to the top of Council.

Please sign and share as widely as you can to help protect the arts legacy of our city.

Cllr Doire Finn
Cllr Killian Feehan
Newry SDLP