Plans submitted to restore long derelict hotel in Meath
Plans to restore the long-derelict Old Mill Hotel in Julianstowns in Meath, have been officially submitted to Meath County Council.
Casana Developments Limited has lodged a planning application seeking permission to develop 62 residential units on the site. The proposed development includes a mix of terraced houses, apartments, and duplex units.
Central to the proposal is the conservation and adaptive reuse of two derelict protected structures on the property. Both buildings will be restored and repurposed.
The Mill House, located at the corner of the site, is set to become a medical centre. Meanwhile, the Old Mill itself will be conserved and transformed into a café and community room, with apartments located overhead.
As part of the restoration works, the development will include the demolition and removal of non-original elements. This includes a single-storey garage to the west of the site and the removal of some internal walls. All surviving historic fabric will be carefully conserved and repaired in accordance with heritage guidelines.
The project also includes the creation of a public riverside walkway along the River Nanny, complete with seating areas and landscaped surroundings.
The Old Mill site has been derelict since 2008, raising long-standing concerns among residents due to its prominent location in the heart of Julianstown village. Over the years, locals have consistently called for action to regenerate the site, which is considered a key part of the village’s identity.
Set in a tranquil location along the Nanny River, the Old Mill has served as a local landmark for centuries. Historical records suggest that a cornmill may have existed on the site since medieval times.
Some historians believe the Old Mill may have been one of the earliest structures built in the area.
On a post on social media, Julianstown Tidy Towns said: “The Old Mill sits within a conservation area, new buildings should be designed with sensitivity to the existing character and heritage of the area, prioritizing high-quality design that enhances the surrounding environment.”
“While traditional designs can be appropriate, innovative approaches that complement and integrate with the historic context are also encouraged. We are sure that our local planning authorities and conservation officers can provide guidance on specific requirements and expectations,” they added.
Meanwhile, Independent Senator Sharon Keogan said that a public consultation regarding the site will take place in the coming weeks.