Derelict hotel a step closer to complete revamp
Ambitious plans to overhaul a landmark building in the heart of Ballyjamesduff got a boost at today's meeting of the municipal district area.
The Percy French Hotel has lay derelict for years with the groundfloor doorway and windows boarded up, however the journey towards becoming a new Community, Tourism and Enterprise Hub took another significant step as local councillors approved part 8 planning.
It will house a cafe, remote working spaces, office space, and limited accommodation, if funding is obtained. MD members listened to the presentation of a report delivered by senior planner Nicholas O'Kane in which it was explained the three-storey section of the hotel on Dublin Street will be retained and refurbished while the two storey wing on Stradone Street would be demolished and replaced with similar new builds to “bring it back to its former glory”.
The plans had been on display for six weeks, a period finishing on October 23.
There was one third party submission, outlining concerns over windows looking into adjoining residences. Plans were altered so there would be no windows on the south easterly elevation, which according to Mr O'Kane “clearly dealt with” the issue. He further stressed that the project was in accordance with both the County Development Plan and the Regeneration Plan for Ballyjamesduff.
There was an issue with the construction of the two storey parts of the building, which date from the 19th Century. Addressing this problem calls for its demolition and replacement. A historical building survey will be conducted on these wings to record architectural details.
Mr O'Kane was enthusiastic that the project was “community led and would be community run”, albeit with the support of Cavan County Council.
The project will not be completed in one go, but will come to fruition through phased development. The local authority hope to finance it through the Rural Regeneration and Development fund. Projected costs were not discussed at the meeting.
It was proposed by Trevor Smith (FG) that members approve part 8 planning, and seconded by Craig Lovett (FF) with both councillors describing the hotel's current state as an “eyesore”. Shane P O'Reilly (Ind) paid tribute to the work of former councillor Paddy Smith in making the restoration of the hotel a priority in the last decade. “He was passionate that it should be treated with respect,” said Cllr O'Reilly of Paddy Smith.
He said “great family occasions” for people of the area were always at the Percy French Hotel as it was the “hub of Ballyjamesduff”. He congratulated the council for their “foresight in making Percy French Hotel a hub of the community once again”.
Cllrs Craig Lovett (FF), Philip Brady (FF), and Winston Bennett (FG) and TP O'Reilly (FG) also spoke to welcome the plan.