Planning permission refused for new Mayo town café

Mayo County Council have refused planning permission for the demolition of the old Nolan’s public house in Westport to allow it to be replaced by the construction of a new café.

The local authority refused permission to applicant Harold Conway for the proposed development on James Street in the town.

It had been proposed to demolish the existing public house, formerly Nolans, and residential building at this site. The application also sought permission for the construction of a new café restaurant including preparation of hot and cold food, a food and beverage retail outlet with dine-in and takeaway services on the ground floor and a two-bed apartment on the first floor.

This would also include a new shopfront, new roof lights and clerestory glazing to the rear of the property, with all associated lighting, signage, drainage and service connections.

The Council refused permission for the proposed development on the grounds that it would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

In addition, they said the proposed development was located within an Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) and would be contrary to the town’s Local Area Plan, which aims to ensure the preservation of the special character of the ACA.

Furthermore, they added that Nolan’s Pub is listed on the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage and its demolition would seriously injure the amenities, or depreciate the value, of property in the vicinity.