Historic Country House Wins Protection

An historic country house in Lurgan has been given a boost with new sthat teh NI Environment Minister Alex Attwood has stepped in to protect the Co Armagh property.

The Minister (pictured) has put a Building Preservation Notice (BPN) on Demesne House, set within the historic surroundings of the former Brownlow Estate in Lurgan.

Demesne House is thought to have been built in the early twentieth century for Mr Thomas Johnston, a linen manufacturer. The building is currently advertised for sale.

Alex Attwood said: "I have decided to issue this notice to protect this fine building for a period of six months. Meanwhile my Department will carry out detailed research and consultation to determine if the house should be the subject of permanent listing as an historic building.

"We have to look forward. We must plan for our future. But we must also not ignore what has shaped us. Our built heritage provides a tangible connection to our past and we should protect its best features. It's also integral to our tourism industry and to our economy. This is why I have acted."

Building Preservation Notices were introduced in 2003 to protect historic buildings, which may be in danger of demolition or major alteration, for a period of up to six months as a listed building.

Demesne House is a gentleman's residence built in red brick with sandstone detailing in the Arts and Crafts style. It is little changed externally and has good proportions and fine detailing.

As well as the main house there are ancillary outbuildings and a good quality gate screen that add to the building's architectural and historic interest.

It dates from the early twentieth century and it is further enhanced by its setting, comprising formal gardens close to the house and an extensive demesne bounded by the Antrim and Kilmore Roads and Lurgan Golf Club.

Whilst Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is not aware of any current planning applications which would involve the destruction of Demesne House, demolition of part of the outbuildings and a substantial section of the boundary walling at Kilmore Road has taken place recently.

(GK/BMcC)