Cabinet Approves Tourism Revival Project for Historic Galle Fort Court Buildings

Blending heritage preservation with a renewed vision for tourism in Southern Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s Cabinet of Ministers has approved plans to transform the historic court complex buildings within Galle Fort into a new tourism-focused development project. The initiative forms part of the Greater Galle Development Plan (2021–2030), which recognises the renowned UNESCO-listed fort as a key World Heritage Tourism Zone.

Under the proposal, the existing High Court and Magistrate’s Court operating inside the fort will be relocated to the newly developed court complex situated in Beligaha, Galle. The vacated buildings will then be handed over to the Urban Development Authority to support the “Galle Regeneration Project” through a Public–Private Partnership framework.

The project is expected to strengthen tourism appeal in the region while preserving the fort’s architectural and archaeological significance. Hospitality brands and luxury stays, including IF Villa Thalpe, may also benefit from increased visitor interest in Villas in Sri Lanka, Galle and the surrounding southern coastline.