A long-vacant Thomas Street building once associated with one of Armagh’s best-known saddlers has been brought back into use, with a new business now being sought for the refurbished premises.
The former Stinson the Saddler’s store at 20 Thomas Street had stood empty on Armagh’s high street since closing more than 20 years ago. Its newly unveiled shop front follows the removal of boards and cladding in recent weeks, signalling a major change for a building that had become one of the street’s most prominent eyesores.
From saddlery to redevelopment
The shop was for many decades home to saddles made by renowned former jockey John ‘Jackie’ Stinson. Known locally as ‘Stinson the Saddler’s’, he built a reputation for craftsmanship and leatherwork, passing those skills to his granddaughter, Emma Stinson of ‘Simply E Designs’.
Jackie was also an experienced horse breeder and had backed 67 winners during his hunt racing career. His specialist equestrian knowledge attracted customers from far and wide, but the shop closed when he retired and did not reopen.
The equine enthusiast later died in 2009, aged 76, following an accident involving a lorry in Armagh city centre. In the years after the closure, the premises became increasingly run down, with boarded-up windows, visible cracks and weeds growing around the building.
What the refurbished property offers
The property was bought by a developer before being sold to Drumarg Properties three years ago. Drumarg then lodged plans for a full redevelopment, aimed at returning the building to productive use and improving the appearance of the high street.
According to Tommy McCague of Drumarg Properties, the project has been a costly exercise, but the premises have now been fully refurbished from top to bottom. The completed work includes updated fittings and features, a ground-floor commercial unit with a kitchenette, and two apartments on the upper floors.
Drumarg Properties is also preparing to begin work on another long-vacant premises, with plans to restore Sheelagh McBride’s hair salon through a complete refurbishment.
How businesses can enquire
Expressions of interest are currently being accepted for the commercial unit at 20 Thomas Street. Anyone interested in finding out more is asked to contact First Stop Property directly on Ogle Street.
