34a-b Downpatrick Street, Crossgar, Co Down, BT30 9EA

This is a relatively small two-storey terrace block located on the north-eastern side of Downpatrick Street in Crossgar. The building may date back to before 1834, although it was likely constructed shortly before this time, given the limited development in Crossgar before 1810. It now functions as two shops with modern shop fronts, having previously served as a single dwelling.

The front facade, which faces roughly southwest, is rendered and painted with quoins. Number 34a features a modern shop front with multi-pane glazing and a single first-floor window in a modern frame, surmounted by a traditional-style signboard. Number 34b is largely similar, with its upper-level window slightly further to the right, a larger signboard, a plastic, internally illuminated projecting sign, and projecting light fittings. The front facade is rendered and painted. The rear facade is largely obscured, though a first-floor window to Number 34a is visible, and appears mainly rendered and painted. Significant alterations likely occurred with the division into two properties. The gabled roof is covered with natural slate to the front and a combination of asbestos and natural slate to the rear, with a small cast iron skylight present at the rear of Number 34a. A rendered chimney stack is located on the north-west side, while a brick stack is situated on the south-east side. Modern PVC rainwater goods are in place.

Historical records, including Ordnance Survey maps and valuation returns, indicate the presence of two-storey buildings on this site as early as 1834. The original single dwelling was occupied by a John Beatty around 1863. The property remained largely unchanged until approximately 1970 when a portion was converted into a shop, with a second shop unit inserted in the 1990s.