Support grows for proposed aparthotel development in Leitrim
A planning application to redevelop the former Convent of Mercy in Ballinamore into tourist accommodation with 12 aparthotel units, café and restaurant has drawn support locally.
There has been a strong show of support following the submission of a planning application which, if approved, would see the former Convent of Mercy in Ballinamore transformed into tourist accommodation.
Applicant Hugh Murray submitted the application on May 1, seeking a change of use for the former convent building, chapel and outbuildings. The proposal would see the first and second floors converted into aparthotel accommodation, while the ground floor would house a café and restaurant.
The application seeks permission for a total of 12 aparthotel units across the first and second floors. Plans also include the construction of a new lift and a single-storey kitchen extension to the rear of the building.
Further proposals involve the addition of a glass porch and a covered outdoor seating area adjacent to the proposed café on the building’s south elevation.
Additional elements of the application include the construction of a link corridor connecting the convent building to existing outbuildings, as well as the provision of 19 on-site car parking spaces.
The proposed development has generated significant reaction online. “Good luck with it, it's badly needed in the town. Hope all works out,” one person wrote on Facebook.
“The town would really benefit from accommodation for tourists,” said another local. “Best wishes, it’s badly needed and would be a great boost to the area,” read another comment.
Local councillor Gary Prior also welcomed the planning application, saying it was encouraging to see “anything that attracts new businesses” and brings a derelict building back into use, particularly one with historic importance.
“It’s very much to be welcomed. Ballinamore is a tourist town. There is a lot of footfall that goes through the town so anything that attracts tourists is to be welcomed,” said Cllr Prior.
He also pointed to the increase in visitors to Ballinamore driven by local walkways and festivals.
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“For example the greenway in Ballinamore and the walkways, they’ve grown massively in popularity as well.
“The Camino is there in Ballinamore, the Drumcoura festival and Ballinamore festival. There’s lots of opportunities for bednights in Ballinamore,” he added.
“Ballinamore is a tourist town and it’s definitely to be welcomed,” concluded Cllr Prior.