Ambitious extension plans lodged for pub in Kilkenny

WP Hospitality Ltd have lodged plans with Kilkenny County Council for significant development at Spinners Bar and Restaurant, Lower Kilmacow, County Kilkenny.

The applicant is seeking permission for the 'construction of an extension to the existing public house to provide [an] additional dining/seating area'.

Also sought is the change of use of the ground floor takeaway to a two-bedroom apartment and the subdivision of the existing first-floor apartment and its open attic area into three duplex apartments.

The construction of three amenity terraces to first floor level for the benefit of the three duplex apartments is also proposed, alongside the demolition of existing timber shelter area and all associated site works.

The planning permission application was validated by Kilkenny County Council on March 3 and a decision is expected from the local authority by April 27, 2025.

This timeline may be extented if the local authority decides to seek further information from the applicant in advance of making a decision.

A cover letter submitted to Kilkenny County Council on behalf of the applicant states that 'the proposed development has been carefully designed to address the growing housing needs in the area while ensuring the efficient use of existing residential development'.

The letter continues, "The scheme has been planned to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding built environment, maximizing connectivity and promoting a cohesive urban fabric.

"Particular care has been taken to achieve a high-quality design standard, with a focus on creating an attractive and sustainable living environment. Each residential unit has been thoughtfully designed to include private recreational space, ensuring a high level of residential amenity for future occupants.

"The layout and architectural approach prioritize both functionality and aesthetics, contributing positively to the character of the area.

"Beyond providing much-needed housing, this development aims to revitalize the locality by bringing new life and vibrancy to the community. By encouraging a balanced mix of residents and fostering a strong sense of place, the scheme will contribute to the social and economic regeneration of the area, reinforcing its role as a desirable and sustainable place to live."

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application.

The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Spinners Bar and Restaurant had been listed for sale in recent months with a guide price of €300,000 and subsequently went 'Sale Agreed'.

The previous proprietors posted the following to the bar's social social media channels back in October 2024: "Now that the dust has settled we would like to take a moment to thank everyone not just for an amazing send off but for the last three years.

"We are beyond grateful for the kindness and support shown to us by everyone who stepped through the door.

"We want to say a special thank you to our star behind the bar Orla! Forever with a smile on her face and a comeback to hand, we couldn’t have wished for anyone better.

"As this chapter of our lives close we look forward to what is yet to come, we wish everyone the very best and again thank you all from the bottom of our hearts. The Croke Family"

Prior to being under the stewardship of the Croke family, the pub was operated for seven years by Seamus 'Spinner' Hennessy and Sinead Coady.

These new plans mark the beginning of a new chapter for this iconic building in the heart of South Kilkenny, and any developments will be followed with great interest in the locality.

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