An historic Armagh building has gone on the market - and despite a rapidly falling property market in general - it is expected to generate considerable interest from potential developers.

With atmosphere oozing from its very walls, Armagh Gaol - located in the heart of the cathedral city - and at the southern end of the Mall, facing the city's courthouse, it is a prime site.

The building is currently in the possession of Armagh City and District and it is hoped the redevelopment will mark a flagship hub of economic and social activity.

"Armagh has a deep rooted place in the social, religious and architectural history of the island, religious and architectural history of the island of Ireland," Chief Executive of Armagh City and District Council, John Briggs said.

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"While we have a very rich past we also have a very bright future and the redevelopment of the Gaol is central to our vision of the City's growth over the next decade.

"We are looking for proposals from potential developers with the skills, experience and enthusiasm to realise Armagh Gaol’s huge potential, and deliver a successful redevelopment of this landmark site, one of Northern Ireland’s most important historic buildings."

Architects Francis Cooley and William Murray built Armagh Gaol in 1736.

The complex extends to approximately 2.55 acres and includes a three storey front block, front boundary wall and railings, hinge block, three storey cell block, two storey cell block, two storey infirmary block and is bordered by a main boundary wall.

Possible uses for the site include a single or mixed-use city centre development, such as a hotel, residential apartments, office accommodation, community or leisure facilities, speciality retail space or restaurants and bars.

(JM/NS)