Main Entrance to Silent Valley Mourne Scheme, Head Road, Annalong, Newry, Co Down, BT34 4PU

The main entrance to the Silent Valley Mourne Scheme is comprised of decorative cast iron carriage gates set within cast iron square piers, with smaller pedestrian gates positioned on either side. The gates are approximately 2 metres high and feature spearheads, vegetal decoration, and cast iron fretwork at their bases. The gate piers are constructed of vermiculated ashlar granite with projecting domed panels on each face and pyramidal caps above. These gates are flanked by squared, rock-faced ashlar granite walls that stand approximately 1.7 metres high, finished with oversailing granite coping stones and terminal stone piers.

Following a recent accident, the second pier from the left was damaged and the left-hand vehicle gate was removed for safekeeping; a recast replacement is planned but currently missing. The entrance was erected as part of the Silent Valley development by the Belfast City & District Water Commissioners. It likely dates from around 1905, coinciding with the construction of the nearby Water Superintendent’s house, and is visible in a W.A. Green photograph from around the same period. The entrance, gates, piers and screen demonstrate architectural merit through their style, proportion, and ornamentation, and contribute significantly to the group value and setting of the Silent Valley.