Department for Communities has announced the launch of a consultation to gather views on how a major development site in Irish Street, Downpatrick should be developed.
The extensive site includes the former Police Station building which is owned by the Department for Communities and a council owned adjacent car park and strip of land running between the two sites.
The Department for Communities and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council have worked closely to facilitate the creation of a larger development scheme in order to present a more attractive scheme for developers.
Communities Minister Carál Ní Chuilín said, “This scheme is an excellent example of the Department and Council working together to regenerate Downpatrick town centre. With the launch of this consultation, we are keen to hear from developers and the local community on how this site should be developed. The development of the former PSNI Station and adjacent car park has the potential to transform the Irish Street area into a vibrant, attractive and cohesive place that is enjoyable for all. It will act as a catalyst for the wider regeneration of the town centre.”
Following the consultation period, it is the Department’s intention to offer the site for sale by way of ‘Development Brief’ as this process allows the Department to set out its regeneration requirements and conditions of sale for the site.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councllor Laura Devlin, said, “As Chair of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council I am delighted to see progress being made on the regeneration of this prime site in Downpatrick. The opportunities presented are immense and I hope that the re-development will be able to progress as soon as possible. The soft market testing for the project is a welcome first step in the progression of this exciting regeneration project.”
ARUP consultants have been appointed to oversee the consultation along with Lambert Smith Hampton estate agents.
The site details can be viewed via the online portal virtualengage.arup.com/irish-street where both developers and the wider public can view the Brochure and submit expressions of interest and general feedback.
Comments should be received no later than 18 September 2020.
