Laois bar gets approval for bar alterations and use as a hostel

Planning permission for bar alterations, guest accommodation, an extension and a new toilet block have been approved at a well known bar in Laois.   

Marc Lennon had sought retention planning permission for the work at Lennon's Bar on Mary Street in Durrow.

He applied to Laois County Council for retention for the development in April this year. 

The application sought to “retain the construction of a toilet block to the rear of the site measuring approximately 31m2” and to “retain of the construction of an extension to the rear of the existing building measuring approximately 60m2.” 

He also applied to “ retain the change of use of the existing bar on the ground floor and private accommodation on the first floor for use as a guesthouse/hostel on both ground and first floor.”

The plans were lodged with the council in April but further information was sought due to the application to use accommodation as a guesthouse or hostel. 

Laois County Council requested information in relation to the accommodation being provided at the bar. 

“Policy 8.5.2 of the Laois County Development Plan 2021-2027 states that ‘the Council recognises that the provision of accommodation such as hotels, guesthouses, hostels, caravan and camping sites are essential…the Council will support the development and upgrade of accommodation to meet Fáilte Ireland Quality Standards, subject to development management criteria and will require that such relevant standards are met in development proposals where appropriate…” the council stated. 

They asked the bar to supply details of the type of accommodation and to prove it was compliant with Fáilte Ireland Quality Standards.

The development was granted retention planning permission subject to ten conditions on September 26.