Hostel planned for former bank in Limerick town will help support local tourism
The former bank being converted into hostel accommodation, including self-catering and sanitary facilities.
Plans are progressing to transform the former Bank of Ireland building in Abbeyfeale into a 35-bed hostel, despite councillors raising questions over the long-term viability of the project.
Members of the Newcastle West Municipal District considered a Part VIII planning application seeking a change of use of the vacant three-storey building at The Square, Abbeyfeale during their July meeting.
The proposal will see the former bank being converted into hostel accommodation, including self-catering and sanitary facilities.
While welcoming the proposed redevelopment of the vacant building, councillors expressed reservations about the viability of any hostel.
Cllr Liam Galvin said it represents a “significant investment into a building that got a significant investment” previously, noting that around €500,000 was spent when the property was previously used to accommodate Ukrainian refugees.
He said he had previously hoped to see the building used as a library or a community crèche and, while he did not want to interfere with the planning process, he stated he has concerns about the proposal.
Cllr Francis Foley welcomed plans to bring life back to the building. However, he questioned if the proposed 35-bed hostel would be able to attract enough guests to fill the rooms on a regular basis.
Cllr John Sheahan also questioned the business case for the proposed development, saying he would like to see expressions of interest sought from potential operators before the project proceeds.
"If it's not a success, what is the alternative?” he asked.
Council officials confirmed to Cllr Jerome Scanlan, the development will include nine dormitory rooms, a wheelchair-accessible double room on the ground floor and an ensuite double room on the second floor, with the remaining dormitories accommodating between three and six people.
One third-party submission was received during a public consultation process. It argued the proposed hostel is not the most appropriate use for the prominent town centre building.
Limerick City and County Council says the proposal complies with town centre zoning objectives and will support the regeneration of Abbeyfeale by providing tourism accommodation close to the Limerick Greenway and existing transport links.