In an exciting development for the historic Waterfall Bar at 187 Mayogall Road, Clady, Portglenone, planning approval has been granted for the conversion of existing buildings into five self-catering units. The Mid Ulster District Council’s approval was eagerly awaited after an initial deferral due to concerns about potential flooding and the impact on the bar’s listed status.
Planning Approval
The approval was secured after extensive efforts by CMI Planners Ltd., representing owner Paddy Mooney. The concerns raised initially about potential flooding were addressed in the planning application with the inclusion of flood-resistant and resilient construction methods. These measures were laid out in the detailed Flood Risk Assessment, assuring the council of the project’s feasibility even with the area’s flood risks.
Addressing Concerns
Given the Waterfall Bar’s Grade B1 listed status, extensive consideration was necessary to ensure the redevelopment would not negatively impact its historic and architectural value. The Historic Environment Division (HED) was consulted during the planning process to preserve the building’s integrity. Their evaluation confirmed that the proposal met necessary policy requirements, contingent on specific conditions.
Listed Building Considerations
The consultation with the HED concluded with the necessity of submitting a Listed Building Consent (LBC). This consent ensured that the transformations would be sympathetic to the historical essence of the property, aligning with conservation principles. Approval from the HED was a crucial step in mitigating any possible adverse effects on the Waterfall Bar’s listed status.
HED’s Support
Furthering the case for the redevelopment project, the Historic Environment Division (HED) provided support, albeit with conditions that required careful adherence to policy requirements. This support solidified the proposal’s alignment with heritage preservation standards and allowed the planning process to advance to council discussions.
Design and Usage
The development plan includes converting the vernacular outbuildings surrounding the courtyard at the bar’s rear into self-catering units. These units are designed for seasonal use and are not intended for permanent occupancy, ensuring the rehabilitation project remains in line with heritage conservation principles while adding a new dimension to the property’s usage.
Council Approval
The historic Waterfall Bar, located at 187 Mayogall Road, Clady, Portglenone, has received an exciting development with planning approval for converting existing buildings into five self-catering units. The Mid Ulster District Council’s approval marks a significant milestone for the embattled establishment. Initial plans faced a deferral because of concerns regarding potential flooding risks and the impact on the bar’s listed status, but those hurdles have been overcome now.
This historic bar, a beloved spot in the community, has been a focal point in Portglenone for years. Conversion to self-catering units aims to blend historical preservation with modern utility, offering new opportunities for tourism and local economy growth. The decision to approve the conversion is anticipated to bring a fresh wave of visitors while maintaining the charm and historical significance of the Waterfall Bar. The approval, after thorough consideration and overcoming the deferral, provides a future where the past and present coexist harmoniously, fostering the growth of the local area.
