AQW 44091/22-27

Ms Kellie Armstrong
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 16/04/2026
Answered On Date: 01/05/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities, following a recent meeting of his officials and the local community, for an update on any plans to reopen Kirkistown Castle, Cloughey, to allow public access to this heritage facility that has been closed since Covid.

Answer:

There are no plans to reopen Kirkistown Castle to the public on a regular basis at this time. The site requires significant investment to address known conservation issues, including water ingress at roof level. However, a limited opening for European Heritage Open Days in September may be possible, subject to the usual application process and safety considerations. In support of this, small‑scale, enabling conservation works are currently planned.