Kriterion Conservation Architects has secured the contract to transform Enniskillen Workhouse Entrance Block into a new business enterprise and heritage hub.

The Grade B2 Listed Building will be conserved and restored due to its great historical significance.

Enniskillen Workhouse was designed by architect George Wilkinson and opened in 1844. The main workhouse was demolished in 1964 and all that remains today is the Grade B2 listed Entrance Block which is currently 'at risk' and in need of urgent repair.

Kriterion Conservation Architects, who specialises in the conservation and restoration of listed and historic buildings, will develop project plans and drawings to support a round 2 application.

The application will be submitted by the Council, in partnership with South West College, to HLF in October 2019 in a bid to secure the full £2.3m grant necessary to bring the project to life.

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The plan for Enniskillen Workhouse is to sensitively refurbish the iconic building, bringing approximately 480m² of floor space back into use as a hub for business innovation and enterprise, while part of the building will be redeveloped as mixed-use exhibition, reminiscence and display space. Here the surviving workhouse records and minute books will be displayed and used to tell the story of the workhouse and the people who were housed there for the first time.

Throughout the proposed restoration works a dedicated heritage skills and education programme will enable more than 100 local craftspeople and contractors to benefit from accredited training, and 12 apprenticeships will be created.

Chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Howard Thornton, said: "The appointment of Kriterion Conservation Architects is another important stage in the Enniskillen Workhouse project. The project aims to develop local skills, business and enterprise opportunities while remembering a very important part of our shared history in a meaningful and respectful way. The Council, in partnership with South West College, is continuing to develop the round 2 application in an effort to secure the additional funding needed to bring this project to life and transform the existing site."

Michael McAlister, Chief Executive of South West College added: "This is a significant project for the people of this region and we are delighted to have the expertise of Kriterion Conservation Architects on board to help progress this unique venture. The College looks forward to working with all the partners involved to deliver a pioneering innovative learning space within this historic building."

(CM/MH)