Political disagreements surrounding the redevelopment of the site, which once housed numerous paramilitary prisoners during the Troubles, have stalled major development efforts. While parts of the area have been repurposed for Balmoral Park, hosting the annual agricultural show, and by the Ulster Aviation Society, much of the site, including former prison buildings, remains unused.

Recently, it was revealed that the Maze Long Kesh Development Corporation held discussions in April with senior officials from National Museums NI (NMNI). The museum organization confirmed it had explored the possibility of contributing to the “interpretation and access” of the site but made it clear that any involvement would only follow political consensus on its future.

UUP MLA Robbie Butler raised the issue during a session of questions to the Executive Office in the Assembly, asking for an update on the site’s future.

In response, Little-Pengelly noted that she and First Minister Michelle O’Neill had recently met with the newly appointed board overseeing the site. She stressed that any development must take into account the perspectives of victims and survivors, as they are the most deeply affected by the site’s history.

Butler, a former prison officer, acknowledged her response but questioned whether there was a genuine commitment to realizing the site’s full potential, which he described as one of the most significant in Northern Ireland.

As a fellow Lagan Valley representative, Little-Pengelly expressed her own desire to see the site’s potential unlocked. However, she made it clear that in her role as deputy First Minister, she would never support any initiative that could cause harm or offense to victims and survivors or that could be seen as glorifying violence or terrorism.

Moving forward, she emphasized the need for careful discussions, acknowledging the positive developments already happening at the site, such as the growth of the Ulster Aviation Society and the success of the Balmoral Show, while reaffirming the importance of sensitivity in any future plans.