THE former Fort Bar on Springfield Road has been added to the Heritage at Risk NI Register following concerns over the condition and future of the historic building.
The landmark pub has stood on the Springfield Road since Victorian times and for many local people remains an important part of the history and character of the area.
However, since closing its doors in September 2024, the building has remained vacant and concerns have grown about its condition and the impact the derelict premises is having on the surrounding area.
The Fort dates back to 1865 and retains a number of important Victorian features. The Grade B1 listed building is recognised by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) for its historic interior, which includes traditional wooden snugs, tiled floors and an ornate Victorian bar.
The premises was previously owned by the Beannchor Group before being put on the market following the bar's closure. The property was subsequently sold, but efforts by local representatives to engage with the current owners have proven difficult.
Local Sinn Féin Councillor Claire Canavan welcomed confirmation from the Historic Environment Division that the listed building has been included on the register following a recent site inspection. The decision follows concerns raised about the deterioration of the former bar and the absence of an identified new use for the property.
Councillor Canavan, who has previously highlighted the condition of the building and called for action to protect it said the latest development represents an important step towards safeguarding its future.
"I welcome confirmation from the Historic Environment Division that the former Fort Bar has now been added to the Heritage at Risk NI Register," she said.
"This is a building with a long-standing connection to the Springfield Road and the wider West Belfast community, and it is important that we do everything possible to protect it from further deterioration.
"I have been raising concerns about the condition of the building, and I am pleased that these concerns have now been formally recognised following an inspection by the Department.
"The priority now must be ensuring that the building is properly protected while consideration is given to finding a sustainable future use for the site.
"While inclusion on the register is a welcome development, it is not the end of the process. We need to see meaningful engagement with the owner and practical steps taken to safeguard this important listed building.
"I will continue to engage with the Department, press for the protection of the former Fort Bar and keep local residents updated on any further developments."
The Historic Environment Division has confirmed that its immediate priority is to notify the building's owner and offer advice and support aimed at preventing further deterioration.
