Rear of 36b Merchants Quay, Newry, Co Down, BT35 8HF

A large single-storey shed, likely built between 1860 and 1879, stands in the back of a yard behind the main building at 36b Merchants Quay, Newry. While not of special architectural interest in itself, the shed is of interest due to its roof construction and its former use as a spade mill. The roof is covered with corrugated metal and clear corrugated plastic sheets, originally with a raised ridge section that has since been dismantled and sheeted over. It is supported by common rafters over triple purlins, which in turn rest on nine queen-post trusses. These trusses have free spans of approximately 14.15 metres (46 feet 5 inches), with their ends resting on projecting stones near the wall heads. The shed has plastic rainwater goods, which are partially missing. The walls are constructed of unrendered, random granite rubble. The rear gable is punctuated by four openings, each featuring metal bars and one-piece dressed granite jambs, lintels, and cills. The front gable faces the yard and is open.

The shed operated as a spade mill, powered by a 12 horsepower steam engine, and was in operation by 1869, being managed by Messrs Carvill. It ceased operations around 1888, as indicated by its disappearance from the valuation records. The building possesses industrial archaeological interest.