AQW 39021/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Education

To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 37562/22-27, to detail any outstanding legal issues that prevent the site from being placed on the open market for sale.

Asked by Nick Mathison MLA on 26 January 2026

  • Answered
  • Written
  • After due date
Tabled
26 January 2026
Answer due by
10 February 2026
Answered
13 February 202618 days after tabling
Department
Department of Education
Priority question
No

Answer

The EA is proceeding to place this property on the open market, despite certain burdens remaining on the title.

The site comprises two plots. The front plot, which borders the Portaferry Road, previously accommodated the former Castle Gardens School (now demolished), and is subject to an Educational Trust. The trust conditions primarily restrict the use of this portion of the land to a public elementary school, or other education related purposes.

Although it has been established that the freehold title is held by the Post Office for the second plot, they have not confirmed their interest despite repeated attempts to engage with them.

Official sources