Welcome for work on Portaferry complex

29 March 2017

WORK has started on a £350,000 refurbishment scheme at Portaferry’s historic Market House.

The 18th century building in the heart of the village is owned and operated by Ards and North Down Council and the refurbishment scheme is designed to restore the historic building to its former glory.

The scheme is due for completion by early July and the work will involve the removal of cement render and replacing it with lime mortar render and lime wash. The refurbishment work will also provide new office and reception facilities and a ground floor media room

The start of restoration work has been welcomed by Portaferry councillor Joe Boyle who is pleased the refurbished building will be available for use for most of the busy summer period.

Describing the process which led to agreement being secured to restore the building as “lengthy,” councillor Boyle said he was involved in numerous conversations with local authority officials and representatives from Portaferry Regeneration on how best to progress the restoration scheme.

“This project will undoubtedly create a new freshness within the centre of Portaferry,” he continued. “Architecturally, this is a very historic building synonymous with the centre of the village. The refurbishment programme will clearly modernise the facility internally and externally to allow for increased use by a greater number of groups and organisations.

“The refurbishment scheme will also act as a catalyst, contributing to the overall economic development of the area that will filter throughout the entire Ards Peninsula area.”

Councillor Boyle added: “I wish to place on record my thanks to council officers who have put a lot of time and effort into bringing this project to fruition.

I also commend Portaferry Regeneration Ltd for its efforts, commitment and co-operation to this project. It has been a fine example of partnership working whereby a win-win situation will be the outcome for everyone.”

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