Preparations have started for the refurbishment of the former First Trust Bank building at 8 High Street in Omagh town centre. A Belfast-based company, Regus, plans to convert the ground floor into flexible office accommodation. The company submitted a planning application this week to Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.

The project includes internal reconfiguration of the ground floor to create 13 offices, each with two desks, plus an entrance lobby, reception, sales room, meeting room and phone booth. Stephen Duncan of Dunclare Architects stated that the work involves only internal alterations with no changes to the external facade, scale or architectural detailing.

Regus provides office space and services. The facility could accommodate up to 30 people at full capacity. No plans exist yet for the two upper floors. The building is expected to open by June if planning approval is granted.

The property, built in 1923 with a Portland stone facade, was sold after First Trust closed its Omagh branch in November 2021. Dromore businessman Derek Keys purchased it through Tamar (Selby) Ltd. Vincent Brogan of Omagh Heritage Forum stated that the forum welcomes the reuse of the building for modern purposes while retaining its character.