Council plans to sell Gallows Hill

Council plans to sell Gallows Hill

1 July 2020

NEWRY, Mourne and Down Council has decided not to sell off the historic Gallows Hill area in Downpatrick and instead to develop it as a tourism destination.

The site was one of a number that the local authority had expressed an interest in potentially selling as it was deemed to be surplus to requirement.

Council officials had earmarked the Gallows Hill site for disposal under a so-called asset management strategy through a process known as D1 but has rowed back under pressure from politicians.

When an asset is declared surplus, a D1 application is sent to the Central Advisory Unit — a body within the Department of Finance’s Land & Property Services — who then manage the disposal process of surplus lands. 

CAU then inform an internal market consisting of public sector bodies such as government departments, district councils and housing associations seeking land for social housing or affordable housing.

Downpatrick councillors Gareth Sharvin and Oonagh Hanlon have described the Gallows Hill area — which commands a stunning view over a large part of the town –  as one of significant natural beauty and historical significance.

At a recent meeting of Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s Efficiency Working Group, council officers had listed the Gallows Hill area of land as part of the council’s asset management review process for consideration. 

Council officers had reported to the councillors that there was no plan for the development of the area within council departments and a decision was needed around the future of the site moving forward. 

Cllr Sharvin, who proposed that the historic location remained in local authority ownership, said the Gallows Hill was steeped in the history of Downpatrick. 

He said the site offered a “great tourism opportunity” to tell the story of Downpatrick, including the old barracks house and the Gallows Hill being the site where prisoners were brought to be hanged.

He continued: “The Gallows Hill is a great viewing area and a destination for walkers and residents. I am pleased that the site is to be retained by the council and work with the Downpatrick DEA to develop a brief to improve the area and turn it into a tourism destination for visitors and a walking route for the local community.

“I welcome the support of my fellow council colleagues in securing the future council ownership of Gallows Hill.”

Cllr Hanlon said the Gallows Hill offered views of the Mound of Down, Inch Abbey Down Cathedral and the Dromara Hills.

She also said that the area was popular with many walkers as it formed part of the Lecale Way walking route.

“It is vital that the Gallows Hill is retained in public ownership and not sold off,” declared Cllr Hanlon.

“It is important that all options are explored by council to develop the site for the benefit of locals and visitors alike. Local consultation and feedback will also be vital and I would welcome feedback and ideas to bring forward to council officers.”