Planning mix-up sees two Galway redevelopment applications classed as invalid
Two applications for redevelopments in Galway have been deemed invalid by city council planning authorities as the locations were outside city council jurisdiction.
Planning for an additional floor at the Ballynahinch Castle Hotel in Connemara and change of use of the Wren Bar in Woodford into a residential building was classed invalid for putting forward the application with the wrong authority. These locations are within the jurisdiction of Galway County Council.
The additional floor within the protected Ballynahinch Castle was proposed over the 1990s River Wing and plans to be 235sqm. The space will accommodate four new suites with private terraces overlooking the Ballynahinch river.
The hotel is set on a 700-acre estate in the heart of Connemara with the Twelve Bens mountain range set as a backdrop. There is record of the castle dating back to 1384 in a famous battle between the O’Flahertys and O’Malleys.
On the other side of the city, near the Clare/Galway county line, the permanently closed Wren Bar put forward a request for change of use to convert the building into residential use on the ground floor.
The application also requests removing the second entrance door from the front side and add windows. As well as change associated signage.
The bar was open for six years and closed its doors at the end of August 2024. In an Instagram post made by the owner they stated the closure was due to “commitments elsewhere and changing landscapes of rural pubs across Ireland.”
The pub highlighted sport and music on their social media.
The living area already acquired with the building hosts 4 bedrooms, a kitchen and living area, and one primary bathroom.
Both applications were submitted on September 11 and considered invalid within one day of their processing. Galway County Council planning authority have not received either application at this time.