Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council held public engagement sessions at Armagh Gaol in March. More than 700 residents, businesses, community organisations and visitors attended to share ideas for the site's future.

The council owns the Georgian-era building, constructed around 1780. It served as Northern Ireland's main women's prison until closing in 1986. The site has remained vacant since then.

Planning consultant Kieran Carlin of Carlin Planning Ltd hosted the sessions. Participants suggested options including a visitor attraction on the gaol's history, a boutique hotel and creative business spaces for young people.

Carlin stated people want the site developed after years of vacancy. He noted the heritage must be retained and told through any future use.

ABC Council deputy chief executive Charlene Stoops said past efforts lacked timing and funding. The council now pursues funding from the Mid South West Growth Deal, a government investment scheme with partners including Fermanagh and Omagh and Mid Ulster councils.

Stoops described the gaol as a priority project to breathe life into the historic building. The council expects to complete its business case by late summer 2026.

Lord Mayor Alderman Stephen Moutray thanked attendees. He said the feedback will shape the business case to reflect local aspirations and support Armagh's cultural, social and economic life.

Previous plans included a museum and tourist office in 2004 and a hotel with apartments in 2013, but they did not advance.