Downpatrick, one of Northern Ireland's most historic towns, has been selected for a new £14 million hotel right in the heart of the famous St Patrick’s Trail.

Plans unveiled today reveal a three-star-deluxe 80 bedroom themed 'St Patrick’s Abbey Hotel'.

The hotel will provide a significant job boost of 75 full time jobs and at least 60 jobs during the construction period.

Downpatrick is famed for its links to key heritage sites including St. Patrick’s Grave, Inch Abbey Ruins and the town's visitor centre, all of which attract more than 125,000 visitors annually. These cultural associations make the town one of the province's top five places to visit.

Kevin Smyth, from the hotel development team said: "After much research and planning, it was clear that Downpatrick was the ideal choice for the new St Patrick’s Abbey hotel because of its location, cultural and historical importance.

-- Advertisement --

"Each year more than 125,000 visitors pass through this area and the town’s importance until recently has been neglected. Now, there is a definite regeneration in the area with projects that are attracting new markets, which are in turn boosting the local economy. "

He added: "We identified a need for quality accommodation. This project will be the first superior hotel of its kind in the town and it will encourage visitors to extend their stay in this area of natural beauty.

"The company will source local supplies and labour for this project in order to help improve the construction industry as well. At a time when many are shying away from development, it’s important for us to look positively to the future."

Kevin hailed the venture as "a fantastic tourism product" that will provide superior, affordable accommodation and a taste of the real Ireland for visitors and locals.

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie, welcomed the news: "I am delighted that this exciting new St Patrick's Abbey hotel development is coming to our county town. At a time of economic downturn, this investment will create much needed local employment."

Ms Ritchie said the announcement comes on the back of the opening of a new hospital, cinema and regional college and is further confirmation that the regeneration of Downpatrick is well under way.

Construction is expected to commence in January 2010 and the hotel will open in late spring 2011.

(GK/KMcA)