Downpatrick hotel planning expansion

Downpatrick hotel planning expansion

4 November 2015

BALLYDUGAN Mill outside Downpatrick is in line for a £500,000 expansion.

The Killen family — who purchased the 18th century former flour mill in 1987 — are set to make a further significant investment in the popular venue by purchasing and restoring the adjacent former mill manager’s house.

Originally built in 1792, the rustic Ballydugan Mill currently includes a restaurant, wedding venue and accommodation, incorporating 22 bedrooms.

Mill owner, Mr Noel Killen, said he is delighted to undertake another major restoration project.

“We spent around 12 years restoring Ballydugan Mill before opening it as a wedding venue in 2000 and have undertaken a number of renovations since, including restoring the old grain store, which has been converted into further accommodation. We are currently converting what was the beam engine house. 

“With the support of Ulster Bank, we are now able to purchase the neighbouring property and land, which used to be where the manager of the mill lived. We will then undertake a significant restoration of the listed property. This will allow us to further extend the venue.” 

Mr Killen said the business continues to expand, explaining the new investment is needed to help cater for the increased number of wedding receptions the venue is hosting.

“Work on the extension is already underway and we hope it will be completed by next Christmas,” he said. “The work will create several jobs in the construction industry and we may have to employ additional staff at The Mill when this project is completed.”

Mr Killen said the work to restore the former mill manager’s house, which enjoys protected status, will ensure the property is retained and becomes an integral part of the business.

“The old house was under threat as a result of its condition and I am delighted we now have the opportunity to restore it to its former glory and ensure it becomes part and parcel of Ballydugan Mill,” he continued.

“I am really happy with the way the business has been growing and the new extension will allow us to meet the growing demand for people to hold their wedding receptions here by expanding.”

South Down MP, Margaret Ritchie, has welcomed the £500,000 investment, describing it as “excellent news for the owners, staff, customers and the wider community.”

She added: “I am sure that The Mill at Ballydugan will continue to develop and expand with this investment helping to meet the demand with increasing numbers of visitors to the district. I would like to congratulate the owners on this funding boost and hope The Mill will go from strength to strength with its development.”