Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council has expressed its gratitude to the more than 700 residents, business representatives, community groups, and visitors who participated in recent public engagement sessions regarding the future of Armagh Gaol.

The sessions provided stakeholders with the opportunity to explore the historic site and offer their visions for its transformation. The feedback gathered is set to play a critical role in shaping the project's next phase, ensuring the business case aligns with local aspirations for the site's social, economic, and cultural development.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Alderman Stephen Moutray, commented: "I want to thank everyone who took the time to visit Armagh Gaol and share their ideas about its future. The interest shown throughout the engagement sessions highlight just how important this landmark is to our borough. "All the feedback gathered will directly shape the next stage of this project, ensuring the business case reflects the aspirations of local people and supports a sustainable future for Armagh and the wider borough."

Armagh Gaol, an iconic building overlooking The Mall, has remained vacant since 1986. Following previous unsuccessful attempts at regeneration, the project has received new momentum through the Mid South West (MSW) Growth Deal. This programme aims to drive economic growth in the region and has identified the Gaol as a priority site for multifunctional use.

Carlin Planning, which facilitated the recent engagement events on behalf of the Council, will now assist in developing an outline business case. This process will evaluate the public feedback alongside commercially viable options for the building's long-term future.

The completed business case is expected to be submitted to the Mid South West Growth Deal in late summer 2026. For further updates and to view photographs from the recent consultation sessions, please visit the council's project page.