Armagh Gaol Development Approved

Armagh Gaol is to be redeveloped into a new hotel and spa, following the granting of planning approval.

Environment Minister Alex Attwood's recommendation for planning was ratified by Armagh City & District Council.

Seven retail units and thirty two apartments will be built at the site.

Approval has also been given for number 6 Gaol Square to provide residential/office use.

Armagh Gaol was once the primary women's prison in Northern Ireland.

The prison, including the associated cell buildings and ancillary outbuildings to the rear and the wall that surrounds the site, are Grade B+ listed.

The development scheme will see the reconfiguration of the road junctions at Goal Square and the layout to the front of the site at Gaol Square.

Alex Attwood said: "I very much welcome Armagh City and District Council’s backing for the redevelopment of Armagh Gaol. It will create a vibrant destination within the city, contributing to tourism in the area and bringing an important but currently unused listed building back into use. The overall project cost is £23m, with £15m of that coming from grants to support the scheme. The proposal will create in the region of 320 local jobs.

"This is a huge redevelopment scheme which will benefit all of Armagh and the surrounding areas for many years. It will create much needed employment during the development of the site and the construction of the new buildings. It will contribute to the tourism potential of the Armagh Area, providing much needed tourism accommodation within the city."

Armagh City & District Council was consulted with the proposal at its meeting on 7 May and raised no objections to the proposal.

(IT/CD)