THE redevelopment of the former Downe Hospital site is expected to get underway in the New Year.
Planners have approved plans to build 28 new homes, with the development part of a major social housing scheme expected to be constructed at the seven acre site. The new homes will be built on a portion of land which borders the Killough and Ardglass roads.
Local planners have been considering full plans for the social housing development since last year after the sprawling site was purchased by a consortium which hopes to build120 houses and apartments for Clanmil Housing Association.
The Downpatrick development is one project within the Housing Executive’s five-year plan for the Newry, Mourne and Down Council area, which includes the construction of almost 500 new homes.
The Housing Executive is supporting the construction of new social homes at the former hospital site, while Clanmill Housing confirmed recently it is working with the site developer, through a competitive design and build process, to progress the delivery of much needed homes in the area.
South Down MP Margaret Ritchie and Councillor Dermot Curran have welcomed the decision to grant planning permission for 28 homes at the former hospital site.
Miss Ritchie said she looked forward to building work getting underway, with the project providing a timely boost for the local construction industry and those on the waiting list for social homes in the Downpatrick area.
The MP confirmed that officials from Clanmill Housing plan to consult with existing residents at this part of the town to advise them of the nature of the proposed development.
She added: “This new scheme will boost the local construction industry, builders’ suppliers and help address unmet housing need in the Downpatrick area.”
Councillor Curran revealed he is keen to meet with the owner of the site to discuss its further redevelopment and hopes the fact a new housing scheme has secured the green light will encourage more development.
“The former hospital site offers massive development potential and can play a key role in the social and economic regeneration of Downpatrick. This is a prime location and I hope additional construction proposals will come forward and that the entire site can be redeveloped,” he continued.
“The site has unfortunately been lying vacant for some time, with the old hospital buildings that remain targeted by thieves and arsonists. The former medical complex is a blot on the landscape but hopefully the proposed housing development will be the catalyst to help breathe new life into it.”
Councillor Curran added: “I have no doubt the people who live close to the old Downe are as keen as I am for redevelopment work to start in earnest. The regeneration of this part of Downpatrick is not only long overdue, but essential. The old hospital site has been lying vacant for over seven years and the complex is in need of much-needed revitalisation.”
In October, planning approval was secured to build nine new social homes at the site of the former health clinic in Pound Lane, directly opposite the old hospital site.
These homes will also be built for Clanmil Housing, with the development featuring a mix of semi-detached and townhouses which will be constructed adjacent to existing homes in nearby John Street.