Work starts on landmark project

Work has commenced on the long-awaited redevelopment of the former Erne Palais site in Belturbet, nearly seven years after the historic building was destroyed by fire.

Construction teams moved onto the site last week, following consultations regarding safety measures, particularly given the location’s proximity to a busy intersection.

Originally built in 1947, the Erne Palais began life as a cinema before becoming one of the region’s most popular ballrooms. It later served as a community centre but eventually fell into disuse.

A devastating arson attack in September 2018 reduced the building to ruins.

The incident remains under investigation, with no arrests made to date. However, due to concerns about asbestos, surrounding areas were cordoned off during the clean-up period and no works have taken place since, despite Cavan County Council purchasing the site later that same year, pending planning and departmental approval.

In June 2021, planning permission was granted to Erne Palais Ltd, although this decision was subsequently appealed to An Bord Pleanála. The bord ultimately upheld the approval, allowing for the building’s redevelopment while preserving the landmark façade.

The approved plans include converting around 30% of the existing building footprint into two apartments. The remainder of the site will see the construction of three terraced houses and two bungalow-style homes.

An Bord Pleanála granted permission with 17 conditions. These include the removal of outdoor spaces originally proposed for the building's front and the installation of a pedestrian crossing at the junction of Holborn Hill and Barrack Street.

A local director of Erne Palais Ltd welcomed the approval at the time, noting that the site - previously associated with anti-social behaviour including drug use - can now be transformed into much-needed housing, providing a “real benefit” to the Belturbet community.