Island Dairies is an outstanding commercial farm with a contiguous block of productive, versatile land extending to about 185 acres (75 hectares) in total. Occupying a fine situation in the heart of County Down, the farm is extremely accessible, with access to the A1 situated 2.5 miles to the east, while Belfast International Airport is 23 miles distant.

 

Island Dairies comprises a variety of assets, including a charming country farmhouse at its core as well as a partially restored mansion house, both of which include exceptional views of the rolling countryside.

 

A key feature of the farm is the dairy enterprise and associated land. The extensive dairy complex comprises a 32:32 DeLaval rapid-exit parlour with cubicle accommodation for over 600 cows and heifers, seven silage clamps and slurry storage for over 4 million gallons. 

 

Island Dairies Farm is carrying an in-hand herd of 600 mostly registered Holstein dairy cows, plus followers. Four Lely robotic milking units, which are excluded from the sale (refer to the General Remarks), also support the dairy operation.

 

A significant advantage of Island Dairies is the quality and extent of its farmland, which lies in a ring-fenced block and includes approximately 165 acres of ploughable grass. The land benefits from excellent infrastructure, including good access via public roads, a network of internal tracks, fencing, and a reliable water supply. About 8 acres of mature woods provide additional amenity and shelter.

 

The farm also includes a range of modern farm buildings centred around a milk processing plant. Island Dairies Farm presents one of the finest opportunities in recent years to acquire both an extensive and productive farm in County Down, which is well-served with residential accommodation and an extremely well equipped modern dairy complex.

 

LOCATION

Island Dairies is located on the outskirts of Dromore in County Down, approximately 3 miles to the west on the Lurgan Road (B2). Dromore is a small market town and civil parish within the district of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon and features an array of amenities including convenience stores, restaurants, post office, pubs, shops and schools.

 

Dromore was home to Henry George Ferguson, the British mechanic and inventor who is noted for his role in the development of the modern agricultural tractor. The Harry Ferguson Memorial Garden is set opposite the Ferguson Homestead and exhibits a life size bronze statue of Harry. Today his name lives on in the name of the Massey Ferguson company. 

 

Dromore is extremely well connected, located just 20 miles southwest of Belfast via the A1 Belfast - Dublin road. The city provides a full range of services, education and cultural activities.

 

The neighbouring town of Banbridge and Lisburn City are also a short drive away at approximately 7 miles and 12 miles respectively, due to the high quality A1 road/M1 motorway network. The area is also linked with Lurgan and Ballynahinch via the B2 Lurgan Road and B2 Ballynahinch Road.

 

The area has a reputation for productive, high-quality farmland at low altitude and has a well-developed agricultural infrastructure, including agricultural merchants, machinery suppliers, milk processors and livestock markets. 

 

Belfast City Airport is 23 miles distant and offers flights to destinations throughout Europe and the rest of the UK. Belfast International Airport is also about 23 miles distant, while Dublin Airport is 82 miles distant.

 

There is an excellent selection of primary and secondary schools available in the area.