McKeever Hotels have reaffirmed the Group’s commitment to the community of Armagh and the wider tourism & hospitality sector by unveiling their plans to invest £4million in the Armagh City Hotel.
The investment details and the Group’s wider vision for the hotel were announced at a strategy launch event attended by customers, local community groups, business representatives, and key stakeholders (Wed 22 April).
The announcement, which coincides with the 40th anniversary of the McKeever Hotel Group, comes just 12 months after the family-owned business acquired Armagh City Hotel, making it the seventh property in the Group’s portfolio.
The multi-million-pound programme will centre on enhancing the guest experience and maximising the hotel’s potential as a key tourism asset for the historic city of Armagh. The McKeever family aims to position Armagh City Hotel as a leading all-island conference and events destination, supporting economic growth and attracting increased visitor numbers to the region.
Over the next four years, the investment will deliver significant upgrades to the reception lobby, lounge, and gym / leisure facilities. The McKeevers will also unveiled concepts for a bar and meeting point – known as The Meridan, which has been designed by Drinksology, the team behind the famous Dead Rabbit in New York.
Already, £1.6million of capital expenditure has been allocated to the refurbishment of the meeting and conference suites, including the renowned Fisher Suite, one of Northern Ireland’s largest banqueting hall, which can accommodate up to 900 guests. The hotel’s bedroom area has also been revamped and modernised to four-star status.
Introducing the McKeever family and hotel’s management team, Managing Director, Eddie McKeever, said:
“Over the last year we’ve taken time to truly ‘understand’ the Hotel – listening carefully to its dedicated team, engaging with customers and seeking feedback from the local community. It’s clear that this is an outstanding facility with huge untaped potential in a prime location in one of Ireland’s most historic cities.
“Our aim is to create a four-star, all-island destination that locals can be proud of and visitors admire. Through this investment programme, and working collaboratively with other tourism partners in the area, we are sending a strong signal that Armagh is viable and attractive, boosting confidence and driving economic growth both locally and regionally. We’re very excited by what’s ahead.”
Welcoming the investment news Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray, said:
“This £4 million investment in the Armagh City Hotel is a strong vote of confidence in Armagh’s tourism sector and its future as a destination for visitors and events. The McKeever family’s commitment will strengthen a key hospitality asset for the city, support local jobs and help attract increased visitor numbers, delivering real economic benefits for the wider borough. We would like to wish them every success as this exciting investment programme progresses.”