Glór Mhachaire Fíolta has submitted plans to redevelop the Market Yard in Magherafelt town centre. The proposal includes dedicated Irish language community facilities on upper floors and retail premises on the ground floor. External design follows previously approved schemes.

The group promotes the Irish language in the area. Two years ago, it acquired a long-term lease for the Market Yard and its buildings from Magherafelt Town Trustees with support from An Ciste Infheistíochta Gaeilge.

The site has stood empty for at least 20 years. It dates back almost 200 years. Belfast merchant Thomas Bateson and Lord Londonderry Robert Stewart built it to improve the town.

Glór Mhachaire Fíolta intends to base operations there and offer community facilities. These include space for the Christmas market and summer speciality market.

The group conducted a survey on the site's future with local residents. Planners sent neighbourhood notification letters to nearby property occupiers.

Mid Ulster District Council's Planning Committee will decide on the proposal at a future meeting. Various plans to revitalise the site have been proposed over the years, including one for a hotel.