Former 'Ballroom of Romance' in Offaly bought by two local businessmen

A former Ballroom of Romance and former RIC Barracks in Banagher have been bought by two local businessmen.

The businessmen told The Midland Tribune that they will renovate these premises and might use them for wedding receptions.

Quigley's Hall is a two storey building located beside the Railway Bar, near Royal Shannon Hotel and the town's bridge. Until recently it was being used by three groups including Cloghan Boxing Club, an Indian Community group; and a Gymnastics Club. However they were told they couldn't use the premises anymore while the sale transaction was going on.

The groups told The Midland Tribune that they are worried they won't be allowed to use the Hall in the future. One of the businessmen said the groups were asked to no longer use the building for their activities “because the sale transaction wouldn't have been able to go through otherwise. A premises can't be sold without vacant possession. Now the hall has been sold I'd be happy to talk to the groups about the possibility of them using the building again.”

Decades ago showbands packed out Quigley's Hall and many a local romance began there. Tom Quigley, ran a tailor’s in the premises which was formerly the RIC Barracks. Tom built the dance hall in about 1930. In the 1960s it became very popular as a venue where showbands played. The premises was also a venue for hunt balls and bingo. The former first floor tea rooms, located above the disused garage, was previously used as a courthouse.

The three bay, three storey former RIC Barracks to the left was built about 1800, the heritage shop front being added about 1850. The former Barracks height, scale and elegant Georgian proportions, stand it apart in this section of the Main Street streetscape. Decorative features of note include stucco Quoins, second floor band and window surrounds. The traditional timber shop front is unrivalled in the town.