Mass grave on site of old Dungannon workhouse lies unmarked

Part of the site thought to contain the remains of men, women and children who died at Dungannon workhouse

Despite the knowledge that hundreds are buried in a mass grave in Dungannon - the plot has never been officially marked out.

Speculation on the whereabouts of such a burial ground on the six acre site of the old workhouse on Carland Road has been rife since an article from The Pensive Quill said remains were found, stopping building works at a new housing development on April 24.

But a planning agent working on two applications for houses on the scheme said although he is “not involved on site” he has “not been made aware” of any such find.

Aidan Kelly told the Times a field to the back of where 44 houses are currently being built has been marked out as the possible location of the ‘paupers’ grave’ - and is the reason contractor Knockburn/ Sandale Developments Ltd has submitted two separate planning applications for a total of 49 houses.

Planning agent for new housing scheme thinks this red square could be the site of the paupers' grave

The first application, which was approved by Mid Ulster Council in November, was for 44.

Nine objections were received, two of which raised the issue of the paupers’ grave - but council planners said in a report to the Planning Committee “that area has been excluded from the scheme” after consultation with the Historic Environment Division.

Aidan Kelly said the area thought to contain remains is subject to a second planning application, which also seeks permission for an archeological dig.