39-49 Irish Street

Summary

• Pre-Market Engagement is sought by the Department for Communities (DfC) and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council (NMDDC) for this key 2.02 acre development site in Downpatrick.
• A landmark town centre regeneration opportunity extending to approximately 2.02 acres in the heart of Downpatrick, County Down. The site comprises the former PSNI station, a council-owned car park, and a number of prominent properties fronting Irish Street, including several listed buildings with significant heritage value.
• Jointly promoted by the Department for Communities (DfC) and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council (NMDDC), the opportunity seeks a development partner to deliver a high-quality hotel-led mixed-use regeneration scheme that will act as a catalyst for the continued revitalisation of Downpatrick town centre. A hotel is a mandatory element of the proposed development, supported by complementary residential, retail, public realm and leisure uses.
• Located just 23 miles from Belfast and surrounded by some of Northern Ireland's most significant tourism attractions, including St Patrick's heritage sites, Strangford Lough and the Mourne Mountains, the site benefits from strong visitor appeal, increasing tourism demand and excellent connectivity.  
• The vision for the site is to create a vibrant destination that celebrates Downpatrick's rich heritage while delivering modern accommodation, enhanced public spaces and improved connections throughout the town centre. The indicative development concept includes a 54-bedroom hotel with serviced apartments, residential accommodation, retail space, extensive public open space and integrated parking provision.
• To support delivery, DfC and NMDDC are offering capital grant funding of up to £5.2 million, providing a rare opportunity for developers and investors to participate in a transformational project that will strengthen Downpatrick's tourism offering, stimulate economic growth and secure the long-term future of this strategically important town centre site.

Next Steps

• DfC and NMDDC welcomes feedback on the proposal.  A copy of the Preliminary Market Engagement feedback form is available via LSH ([email protected]) or eTendersNI.  All feedback is required to be submitted via LSH by 3pm on 18th September 2026.
• Upon completion of the review of the feedback from the Preliminary Market Engagement, the procurement documents will be finalised and the tender opportunity will be advertised via eTendersNI and the Find a Tender platforms.
• Full information will be available and prospective developers can submit a response.