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 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.The new Saint Patrick's Abbey Hotel will provide 3 star deluxe accomodation and facilities for locals and tourists is expected to provide an all new gateway to the Co Down area for business, culture and tourism.
Kevin Smyth, from the hotel development team, pictured here, (on right), with Dr Tim Campell, Director of Saint Patrick's Visitor Centre explained: "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 visitors".
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.
