Salt alternative therapy business planned in Portlaoise

An alternative therapy business based on natural salt is planned in Portlaoise town.

A planning application was lodged recently to Laois County Council, for "Natural Salt Wellness Rooms", in a building behind Main Street shops and a pub in the county town.

Applicant Enviroli Ltd asked for permission to change the use of a single-storey, shop store from a launderette facility into the therapy rooms.

The proposed business would be accessed through an existing vintage retail shop at No. 99 Main Street, Portlaoise and an alleyway between two protected structures, Ramsbottom's Pub at 101 Main Street and Marian Carton Optician at 100 Main Street.

Architect's image of the proposed therapy rooms.

The applicant says that upgrading works would include replacing windows, adding universal access and a toilet, bicycle parking and refuse storage. They note that the proposed development is located within an architectural conservation area.

The owner of the shop and rear premises gave their permission in a letter with the application.

The application was made in mid December, and was deemed invalid by the planners for three reasons.

Read next: Portlaoise Jazz Festival making a comeback

They said that "public notices do not state 'Main Street' in the body of the notices". They said "consent should be submitted from the owners of the sites that wayleave is crossing", and also said there was no North point on the floor plan.

No updated application appears to have been lodged to January 16.