Funding boost for the Saint Patrick story

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster has announced a £500,000 funding boost for the St Patrick Signature Project.

The Project aims to bring to life the story of Saint Patrick and develop Christian heritage tourism in Armagh. The three initiatives, which will receive funding through the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) Tourism Development Scheme include Dawson Street and Cathedral Road, Armagh County Museum and the Registry building.

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster said: “Visitors travel from all over the world to learn about Christian heritage and it is therefore important that we work to improve visitor attractions. The NITB Signature Projects were identified for their potential to stand out internationally and the Christian Heritage of Saint Patrick has the potential to attract many visitors to the Armagh/Down area.

“Armagh has long established links to Saint Patrick and this beautiful part of Northern Ireland has significant tourism potential. These improvements will help to create a world class experience for our visitors.”

The Minister concluded: “The future of our Christian heritage is dynamic and through projects such as this, bringing Saint Patrick’s story to life, Northern Ireland can constantly evolve as a unique destination. By listening to the needs of our visitors and offering standards of excellence means we can compete with the best destinations anywhere.”

The NITB Tourism Development Scheme is contributing £195,000 towards the work on Dawson Street and Cathedral Road, which is the main walking trail between the two Saint Patrick’s cathedrals.

A further £125,000 will be invested in enhancements at Armagh County Museum. This project will see the redesign of the entrance and ground floor, as well as the installation of new displays and exhibitions which will reflect the history, life, legacy and landscape of Saint Patrick’s ‘chosen city’.

In addition, the Tourism Development Scheme will contribute £181,459 towards restoration of the Registry. Dating back to 1772, when it was designed as a Diocesan Registry, the Registry originally held records for the Cathedral and Armagh Diocese, until their removal for safekeeping. This project will see the building returned to its former condition. When complete it will become an interpretative centre and an introduction to Armagh Public Library.

Notes to editors:

1. Armagh District Council and DRD Roads Service are also providing funding towards the enhancement of Dawson Street and Cathedral Road (£194,467.50).
2. National Museums Northern Ireland are funding the Armagh County Museum project (£125,058).
3. Armagh Public Library (£90,000) and Heritage lottery Fund (£304,000) are also providing funding towards the Registry Project.
4. The Tourism Development Scheme recognises the central role that visitor attractions play in making Northern Ireland an attractive destination. The main aim of the scheme is to help local tourism projects, within the five Signature Projects, improve their tourism offering and provide a high quality visitor experience.
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