Plans for boutique hotel knocked back

Plans for boutique hotel knocked back

24 August 2016

PLANNERS have vetoed plans for a new 40-bedroom boutique hotel in Downpatrick.

They have ruled that a proposal to build the new complex on land at the rear of a filling station in Church Street cannot proceed because of its proximity to the historic Mound of Down and the likelihood of the proposed development site flooding.

However, planners have indicated they are prepared to maintain discussions with developers interested in developing other town centre sites to provide much-needed hotel accommodation.

The Recorder exclusively unveiled details of the proposal to build a new hotel at the rear of the Church Street filling station last month and two senior politicians who were supporting the scheme hope the proposed investment is not lost to the town.

Councillors Billy Walker and Dermot Curran hope the businessman behind the ambitious proposal will consider other sites to build a new hotel and provide the town with a significant jobs boost.

Newry, Mourne and Down Council and Tourism NI also remain committed to helping deliver the project at an alternative location.

Confirmation the Church Street site cannot be developed came during a recent meeting with the district’s senior planning officials. The businessman behind the hotel plan had indicated that if his project secured the green light construction work could start almost immediately, with his proposed development having the capacity to increase in size to meet future demand.

Councillor Walker said the meeting with planners was arranged ahead of any formal application being lodged to develop the Church Street site.

“The meeting was arranged to discuss the merits of the scheme and if the proposal would ultimately secure planning approval. The fact an early decision has been made, even though it is not positive, will result in major and unnecessary expense pursuing a project that was not going to proceed being avoided,” he said.

“Planners were forthright in their view, but it is clear they are not opposed to future proposals to develop other sites in Downpatrick for a new hotel which is very positive. The fact Newry, Mourne and Down Council and Tourism NI remain committed to supporting the development of a new hotel in the town is highly significant.”

Councillor Walker said an opportunity now exists to examine other potential sites for a new hotel, with planners keen to discuss other options which may come forward.

He added: “The focus now turns to other sites and I will be more than happy to support their development and discuss them with planners. The provision of new hotels in the district is one of Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s main priorities and there is a clear need for such a facility in Downpatrick where there is a dearth of accommodation.”

Councillor Curran, while also disappointed the Church Street site has been ruled out, remains committed to working with developers keen to provide a new Downpatrick hotel to complement existing provision.

He said a new hotel would provide the town with a major economic boost, highlighting the importance of planners, developers and elected representatives working together for the benefit of Downpatrick and other towns across the district.

“I believe there are several other potential sites which could house a new hotel and hope developers will come forward with proposals. They can be assured of support from the local authority and Tourism NI,” he continued.

“The fact we already have an investor keen to build a new hotel in Downpatrick is highly significant and, as I have said before, a town the size of Downpatrick needs a vibrant hotel which can help kick-start the local economy.”

Councillor Curran said a new hotel will boost employment opportunities and help create jobs in the construction industry.