Carrick-on-Suir, County Tipperary, is bracing for a significant change to its town center as plans for a large-scale redevelopment of The Auld Rogue pub have been approved, despite local opposition. The project, spearheaded by JSF Property Holding Ltd, aims to transform the existing pub into a multi-story complex featuring bars, a function room, apartments, and office space. The approval, granted by An Coimisiún Pleanála (the planning appeals board), follows a contentious process marked by appeals from nearby residents concerned about noise and the loss of green space. This decision has sparked debate about the balance between economic development and quality of life in the historic town.
The approved plans detail a substantial expansion of The Auld Rogue, located on Kickham Street. JSF Property Holding Ltd proposed demolishing existing structures to the rear of the pub and constructing a three-story extension. The ground floor will house expanded bar areas, a lounge, a terrace, and essential facilities like restrooms and storage. Above that, the first floor is slated for a function room, also with restroom and storage provisions. The top floor will accommodate two three-bedroom apartments alongside dedicated office space. The project also includes internal renovations to the existing front bar and lounge areas. According to documents filed with Tipperary County Council, the aim is to create a modern, multi-purpose venue.
Residents Voice Concerns Over “Super Pub” Development
The proposal wasn’t without its detractors. Residents of Pearse Square, located near the pub, lodged an appeal with An Coimisiún Pleanála, outlining concerns about increased noise levels and the potential loss of a valuable green space. JP Keevan, representing the residents, stated that the area already experiences “ongoing public noise nuisance” from the pub, and a larger establishment would exacerbate the problem. The appeal, as reported by The Irish Independent, specifically requested “permanent, foolproof and future-proof solutions” such as prohibiting outdoor activities and ensuring noise-generating events take place in soundproofed rooms.
Beyond noise, residents expressed worry about a proposed terrace attached to the function room, fearing it would become a source of disturbance and overlook nearby properties. A key point of contention was the potential removal of a green space, described as the only such area in Pearse Square. Residents characterized the planned development as a “super pub” that would be out of character with the residential neighborhood.
Planning Approval with Conditions
Despite the objections, An Coimisiún Pleanála upheld Tipperary County Council’s decision to grant planning permission. However, the approval came with 16 conditions designed to mitigate the concerns raised by residents. Crucially, the planning appeals body stipulated that no music could be played in any outdoor areas and that these areas must close by 11:00 PM each night. Additional conditions require the developer to repair any damage to public footpaths caused during construction and to ensure access to the function room is solely via Kickham Street, avoiding Town Wall Street.
JSF Property Holding Limited is registered in Ireland under company registration number 546214, with a registered address at 13 Cluain Cregg, Carrick-on-Suir, Co. Tipperary, according to Kompany. The company is classified as a private limited company.
Impact on Carrick-on-Suir
The redevelopment of The Auld Rogue represents a significant investment in Carrick-on-Suir, a town with a population of approximately 6,400 people according to recent estimates. The project is expected to create both construction jobs and ongoing employment opportunities within the expanded pub and apartments. However, the concerns raised by residents highlight the challenges of balancing economic growth with the preservation of local amenities and quality of life. The success of the development will likely depend on the developer’s commitment to adhering to the conditions imposed by An Coimisiún Pleanála and engaging constructively with the local community.
The broader implications of this decision for similar developments in rural Irish towns remain to be seen. It sets a precedent for how planning appeals boards will weigh the concerns of residents against the potential economic benefits of large-scale projects. The next step in the process will be the commencement of construction, with the developer expected to submit detailed plans for the building work in the coming months.
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