The current SWC building on Gaol Square, Enniskillen is on a 4.6 acre site and the process of selling the site will begin early 2019.

Michael Leslie, of Smyth Leslie  estate agents, believes that the relocation of the college will benefit local businesses, unless the current building is left vacant for an extended period of time. 

“I feel it is important that it is sold to the right type of investor who is going to develop it for the benefit of the local economy such as some sort of commercial development like a hotel, which is going to attract people to Enniskillen from a tourist point of view.

 It would be very important that such a prominent, landmark site is not left empty for a very long period of time. If this was the case it will most likely attract vandalism and other anti social activity which could turn it into an eyesore over time. 

This would be harmful to the town generally and in such a conspicuous location on one of the towns main arterial routes would send out the wrong message to visitors and people passing through the town in general.”

 Sara Boyd, of Turning Point Properties believes the current site ‘needs to be occupied or redeveloped in order to maintain the vitality and viability of the town centre.’

“Personally I have mixed views as I feel the SWC should have remained in its current location. However its current location limits it’s capacity in expanding and its new location brings new life to that side of town. The current SWC is surrounded by many retail units, convenience shops and food outlets which rely on the students of the college,” she added. 

Project sponsor for the SWC, Fiona Brazil said, “Land and Property Services will be engaged early in 2019 and will carry out an internal trawl in the public sector first. If there is no uptake there then Land and Property Services will advise South West College on how best to advertise and sell the 4.6 acres site with two listed buildings on the open market.”