Developers have submitted plans to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council for a stand-alone building at Killeavy Castle Hotel on Ballintemple Road in south Armagh. The proposal adds 40 en suite bedrooms, including six for wheelchair users, plus a function room with bar, storage, lounge, breakfast area, patio, kitchen and office facilities.

The new structure sits 130 metres south of the existing hotel in an adjacent field within the estate grounds. It covers more than 27,000 square feet across stepped sections that follow the site topography. Parking would rise from 166 to 262 spaces using the current entrance.

The existing hotel, approved in 2015 and opened in 2019, has 45 bedrooms along with a restaurant, bar, conference rooms, spa and other facilities. Jaramas Investments Ltd lodged the application citing sustained high occupancy rates and demand for more event spaces to avoid conflicts with weddings.

Proponents state the expansion will create local jobs and provide amenities without dominating the current castle-focused site. External finishes of natural stone and timber match the hotel. The layout buffers neighbouring properties from noise and limits visual impact.