Multi-million pound hotel plans for Gaol
Thursday, 20 November 2008
by RICHARD BURDEN.
ARMAGH Gaol is to be converted into a new four-star hotel complex as part of a multi-million pound development, the Ulster Gazette can reveal.
The plans - to be taken forward by the Osborne Group - also include associated restaurants and apartments as part of the overall package.
It is not known at this early stage how many jobs will be created, but it is thought that the works will provide a significant boost to employment, both during the construction phases and upon completion.
The process to find a developer for the Gaol started well over a year ago, when Armagh City and District Council - which owns the building - put together a full development brief. It was then listed on the open market.
As revealed by the Gazette in August, 12 developers initially showed an interest, with a diverse range of proposals coming forward. But when full information was sought on the regeneration potential and 'deliverability' of the individual projects, it led to only two being interviewed by the council's executive committee.
The council was impressed by "the professionalism of both presentations". But in the end it decided to select the four-star hotel, restaurants and apartments bid as the best choice for the regeneration of the Gaol itself and Armagh generally.
Unsuccessful bidders were informed of the decision by letters issued during this past week.
A council spokesperson said the local authority was "delighted" that the work would be carried out by the Osborne Group - in partnership with the Princes Regeneration Trust. The Osborne Group has successfully carried out a similar scheme in relation to Oxford Gaol and Castle and has a very strong track record in regenerating historic buildings and ensuring their sustainable use.
Much work still needs to be done before an actual development contract can be agreed. But it is hoped to sign a 'first stage agreement' with the Osborne Group before Christmas.
The next step then would be to apply for planning permission in the New Year.
Mayor of Armagh, Councillor Noel Sheridan, is confident that the new Gaol project will provide a much-needed boost for the city and district as a whole.
“This is good news for Armagh and will help the city and area as we try to come through the current difficult financial times," he said.
