By Ryan Sands
PLANS for a restaurant at Killyleagh’s Central Bar have been lodged. A change of use application for the Cross Street premises – to include seating for approximately 30 diners and a takeaway – was submitted to council planners by Gabriel Bell on Tuesday, 5 May. A concept design image features ‘Central Restaurant & Pizzeria’ signage. Drawings illustrate that the existing ground floor lounge would be converted into the restaurant’s dining area, whilst the adjacent small bar would be the food carryout area. The installation of a vent duct would be the only change to the property’s first and second floors.
A design and access statement says that the development “seeks to enhance the existing hospitality offering while respecting the character of the surrounding area.” “The application site is situated within the village of Killyleagh, a historic settlement characterised by traditional architecture, narrow streets and a strong sense of place,” it reads. “The Central Bar occupies a prominent position on the corner within the village and is well established as a social and community hub. The surrounding area comprises a mix of residential properties, small businesses and local amenities. The site benefits from existing pedestrian and vehicular access, with connections to the wider road network.”
The document states that “the intention is to create a high-quality dining environment that complements the existing building, while expanding the range of services offered to patrons. The proposal respects the scale, form, and materials of surrounding buildings. Any external alterations will be sympathetic to the existing structure, ensuring continuity with the local vernacular. The restaurant space is designed to provide a welcoming and comfortable environment, with attention to lighting, layout and finishes. Materials will be durable, functional and appropriate to a hospitality setting. External changes will be carefully considered to minimise visual impact on the streetscape. Signage and façade treatments will remain modest and in keeping with the character of Killyleagh and will require a separate planning application for signage as required.”
The statement adds that the proposal has been “carefully developed to minimise impact on neighbouring properties and the wider community,” and that “the restaurant is expected to enhance the vitality of the area without adversely affecting residential amenity.” “The proposed restaurant at the Central Bar represents a sensitive and appropriate enhancement of an existing hospitality venue within Killyleagh,” it concludes. “The design respects the character of the area, improves accessibility and supports the local economy by expanding dining opportunities. The proposal is considered to be in keeping with planning policy and the broader objectives of sustainable development.”
In March, an application to change the use of the bar’s yard and outbuilding to a beer garden was sent to the council.
