Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has launched a pre-market engagement exercise for the redevelopment of the Irish Street site in Downpatrick, run in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

The exercise invites developers, investors and hotel operators to help shape proposals for a flagship town-centre regeneration covering the former PSNI station, several listed buildings along Irish Street and an 83-space Council-owned car park.

Launching the Pre-Market Engagement, Minister Lyons said: "The Irish Street development site has the potential to transform the town centre, creating a vibrant destination that reflects Downpatrick's rich heritage while supporting a growing tourism economy and strengthening local businesses. This is a significant opportunity to bring forward a high-quality regeneration scheme in one of the most important locations in Downpatrick.

"Through this engagement, we are inviting developers, investors and hotel operators to work with us to shape a scheme that can deliver real and lasting benefits for Downpatrick and the wider region, encouraging growth and improving the tourism offer." The Department's vision for the 2.02-acre site is a hotel-led scheme to enhance the town centre, bolster tourism and act as a catalyst for wider regeneration, complemented by residential, retail and public realm uses. It aims to strengthen Downpatrick's appeal as a place to visit, live and work, creating opportunities for investment and sustainable growth.

To support delivery, the Department and Council are proposing a capital grant of up to £5.2 million to help bring forward a high-quality scheme.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna, said: "The redevelopment of this key town centre site will provide a significant social and economic boost for Downpatrick and act as a catalyst for the wider regeneration of the town. This landmark regeneration scheme will support local businesses, create new job opportunities, and enhance the town's tourism offering."

Malachy McGrady, Chair of the Downpatrick Regeneration Working Group, said: "The Irish Street site is widely recognised as a key opportunity to drive regeneration in Downpatrick town centre. The Working Group welcomes this important step forward and looks forward to seeing proposals that reflect the ambition and potential of Downpatrick as a place to live, work and visit."

Developers, investors, hotel operators and other interested parties are encouraged to participate in the pre-market engagement process. For further details, visit the eTendersNI Portal.