Artists Impression of how new building will look click to enlarge Clare Lodge is a holiday retreat located in the picturesque town of Newcastle, Co Down. It has been operating for 32 years, accommodating guests in dormitories and giving much needed breaks to people in need. It has a commanding location adjacent to the sea and the new promenade and also to the town's main street giving easy access for visitors to the surrounding holiday activities. (read more about its history here....)   Existing Building click to enlarge

Ambitious new plans revealed for complete rebuild of Society's Holiday Home for the Elderly in Newcastle, Co Down.   The plans, which were revealed at the Society's AGM in September, outline proposals to demolish the existing site and replace it with a modern, multi-purpose centre, more suited to the needs of the 21st century.   The Society have commissioned the services of Quinn Architects (Dromore). The main benefits of the rebuild will include provision for the following:-   45 Ensuite Rooms Single and Disabled rooms Large Family Rooms Solar Water Heating Retreat Centre off-season External Seating areas Glazed Lobby area New Vincents Boutique

The building itself has become outdated. Residents stay in dormitory type rooms with communal bathrooms. It has been unsatisfactorily altered to allow it to comply with fire regulations and disabled access is difficult. The current building is generally not considered satisfactory for the long term sustainability of a holiday facility in Newcastle.   Artist's Impressions New Shop Front Check-in area Balcony views Side view Promenade elevation Main Street elevation Seating area   click on any image to enlarge The new building will provide extensive views of the mountains and sea and will comply with all current regulations. It will be a low energy building with high insulation values and solar water heating. As well as being used as a holiday centre in the summer months, the facility will be used for retreat purposes outside the summer months.   External seating areas will be provided to the front and rear, including a glazed lobby to form and internal seating area in the evening sun. It will address both the street and the promenade and will make an important contribution to the built form of the town.