The Workhouse Enniskillen has beaten stiff competition to triumph at the recent Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Northern Ireland Awards for Planning Excellence.

It is the second year in a row that Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has experienced success at the prestigious awards, with the Gortin Glen Forest Park awarded the RTPI Northern Ireland Award for Planning Excellence for Health and Well Being.

Facing tough competition from renowned projects such as Game of Thrones Studio Tour and Supplementary Planning Guidance by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, The Workhouse Enniskillen emerged victorious, securing the top honour in the category of Planning Excellence for Heritage and Culture.

These awards serve as a platform to acknowledge outstanding plans, projects, and individuals that exemplify the transformative power of planning.

The restoration of The Workhouse has been a triumph, breathing new life into the historic building while preserving its poignant history and significance.

The project has resulted in the creation of flexible and dynamic workspaces, displaying an exceptional blend of heritage and modern functionality.

The realisation of this ambitious endeavour was made possible through the support and funding received from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, along with the contributions from Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and South West College.

Expressing his delight, Councillor Thomas O’Reilly (SF), Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, said: “We are immensely proud to receive this recognition for The Workhouse Enniskillen.

“The restoration of this historic building not only provides a sustainable asset for the local community and attracts national and international visitors, but also cultivates an environment conducive to the growth of high-potential start-up enterprises, which are vital for our local economy.”

Speaking about the award win, Angela Lavin, Senior Investment Manager for The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “This is a well-deserved award that recognises the talent and commitment of the team behind the reawakening of The Workhouse Enniskillen entrance block.

“Together they have delivered a building that sympathetically acknowledges its past by creating space for reflection and education.

“Now it embraces opportunity and provides support for people using the new innovation and enterprise hub.

“The Workhouse Enniskillen is a fine example of heritage being valued, cared for and sustained for everyone.”

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s triumph exemplifies their commitment to creating exceptional places and safeguarding the heritage and culture of the region.