Planning decision made on proposed 'four-storey hostel' in Kilkenny
Kilkenny County Council give green light for the construction of a four-storey hostel on Pennyfeather Lane in Kilkenny City
The planning authority at Kilkenny County Council have granted planning permission, subject to 15 conditions, for a significant development project on Pennyfeather Lane in the heart of Kilkenny City.
Planned are clearance works on a .034ha site (including the demolition of an existing single-storey building) and the construction of a four-storey hostel with setback fourth-floor level and a plantroom at roof level.
The planned hostel will include a reception area, toilet facilities and 13 bedrooms (with a mix of ensuites and off-suite facilities).
Permission was also sought for drainage works, connection to services and all associated site development works to facilitate the development.
The proposed development site is located within the 'Patrick Street Architectural Conservation Area'.
In the cover letter attached to the planning application, it is noted that the development 'aims to enhance the hospitality infrastructure of the city, providing modern amenities and services to residents and visitors alike'.
The cover letter also states that the 'applicant currently runs the existing successful Lanigan’s hostel business in Kilkenny City and has done so for many years'.
The letter continues: “notes a 'concerted effort to rejuvenate the lanes of Kilkenny by the local authority'.
“The project will involve the demolition of an existing single-storey building which has been vacant for many years and is in a dilapidated state. The demolition of this building will make way for the proposed hostel development.
"The hostel rooms are designed to be economic, in line with accommodations found in modern Irish and European cities. This will provide an affordable option for guests while maintaining quality, ensuring comfort and satisfaction for travellers.
“There will be no deliveries using or stopping on Pennyfeather Lane. Deliveries will use the existing delivery bays on High Street and Friary Street only as agreed with the Kilkenny Municipal District Office and Active Travel Office.
“Patrons of the hostel will be encouraged to avail of the taxi rank on The Parade as a drop-off and pick-up point. It is expected people requiring drop off and pick up at the hostel entrance will be limited to those with mobility issues.
“Careful attention has been given to ensure the hostel fits seamlessly within the existing urban fabric through its use of materials. The proposed development backs on to the seven-story Ormonde Car Park and will help mask the obtrusive nature of its elevation and provide an enhance streetscape for that harmonises with the city's scale and overall cityscape.”
Two prominent Kilkenny City tourist hostels have shut up shop in recent years, making this application particularly significant.
There were multiple third party submissions made in relation to this application so there remains a possibility that the decision from Kilkenny County Council to grant permission may be appealed to An Coimisiún Pleanála.