Backers of the Armagh Gaol scheme visited Oxford Castle

Supporters of Armagh Gaol's entry into the BBC's Restoration competition have visited Oxford Castle.

The site of the former HM Prison Oxford is undergoing a �35m makeover into a hotel, heritage centre and apartments.

Armagh city leaders visited the site to see how to carry out such a restoration project successfully.

Trevor Osborne, chairman of developers The Osborne Group, said: "Oxford Castle is a prime example of the work that can be achieved in the planning and conservation of such an important historical site.

"I am delighted that the Armagh Gaol campaign views Oxford Castle as an exemplar scheme."

The revamp of the former Oxford jail should be finished by 2005

Victor Brownlees, chief executive of Armagh City and District Council, said: "The Restoration programme is a golden opportunity to secure more funding for the sympathetic development of the site, which we want to preserve, bring back into use and make accessible for the education and enjoyment of all, in a way which is also commercially viable.

"Oxford Castle Heritage Project has inspired us into believing we can achieve this."

The redevelopment of the former HM Prison Oxford, which was closed in 1996, is due to be completed in 2005.

Backers of the Armagh scheme hope to open one wing of the original prison building as a visitor centre and museum.

The rest of the complex could be developed as offices to create revenue for the upkeep of the building.