Convent of Mercy School, Sussex Place << PREVIOUS | NEXT PROJECT >>
The former St. Malachy’s School at Sussex Place was built in 1878 and was the first building purchased by BBPT, with the assistance of an Architectural Heritage Fund acquisition loan, in order to prevent its demolition. Having ceased to be a school many years ago the building has been home to St.George’s Boxing Club, the oldest boxing club in Belfast. Long-term plans for the building are still under consideration, in partnership with St. George’s Boxing Club to develop a Centre of Boxing Excellence that would allow ‘Sussex Place’ to remain as the home for the boxing club, alongside either residential or office development.
Sussex Place is located in Belfast’s Linen Conservation Area, directly behind City Hall. The rapid development of large-scale office buildings in the immediate vicinity has meant a loss of character for much of the area. The Grade B listed former school building is important as a link with the area’s past and its particular identity. In architectural and character terms it relates to the adjacent former Convent House and the surrounding restored housing of Sussex Place and Joy Street.
The building has been secured and insured with initial works carried out to prevent further deterioration of the fabric. Architectural research and design proposals are on-going with a further decision on the proposed scheme to be taken at a further date.