14 December 1999

MINISTER ON FACT FINDING VISIT TO CRUMLIN ROAD JAIL

The Minister for Social Development, Nigel Dodds, MLA, today met with representatives of the Phoenix Trust to discuss proposals for the regeneration of Crumlin Road jail.

Welcoming Phoenix Trust's interest in the jail, Mr Dodds said:

"Crumlin Road jail is of substantial architectural and historical significance to the city of Belfast. The regeneration of the site presents a unique opportunity to develop an integrated regeneration plan that will breathe new life into this part of North Belfast. It is planned to dispose of the jail by means of a developer's brief, rather than sell direct to the highest bidder. Quality, creativity and a recognition of the historical significance of the jail, as well as the needs of the local community will be important considerations."

Concluding Mr Dodds said:

"The Phoenix Trust has been involved in the acquisition and repair of major historical buildings in other parts of the UK. They have demonstrated that heritage sites like Crumlin Rd can become the centrepiece of community regeneration projects. After today's visit, I hope they can help us ensure that the future plans for the jail not only protect its history and architecture, but also, act as a catalyst for the regeneration of the Crumlin Rd area."

 

NOTES TO EDITORS

1. The Minister for Social development, Mr Nigel Dodds, MLA, will meet Mr Kit Martin, Director of the Phoenix Trust. The purpose of the Phoenix Trust is to acquire and repair major historical buildings that might otherwise fall into decay or face demolition. The trust is at present in the advanced stage of the restoration and conversion of Stanley Mills - one of Scotland's greatest but previously derelict mill complexes.
2. The Northern Ireland Prison Service has declared the Jail surplus to requirements. The sale will be by way of a development brief.
3. The local community and political representatives are being consulted about the brief and plans for the Jail. Consultation on the development brief has started. These should be completed in January 2000 when a draft report will be available. It is hoped that this process will open the door to bids from a wide range of organisations including the private sector, voluntary and community groups and development Trusts.
4. The Crumlin Road Jail, designed by Sir Charles Lanyon, was completed in 1846. The jail is situated on the lower Crumlin Rd, close to the City Centre and is opposite the County Courthouse, also designed by Lanyon and connected to it by means of an underground tunnel. Both buildings have been listed.