Planning sought to convert former Moville Bank into apartments

Planning permission is being sought to convert the former Allied Irish Bank (AIB) building on Main Street in Moville into residential apartments.

Applicants Gerard and Sarah Lafferty have submitted plans to change the bank, which has been vacant since its closure in 2013, into three apartments. As part of the proposal, the applicants are also seeking permission to demolish existing outbuildings located on the grounds of the property.

The application includes plans for an extension to the existing building, along with a connection to existing public services and all associated site works.

The proposal marks the second major redevelopment plan for a former bank building in Moville in recent months. Planning permission was previously granted to convert the former Bank of Ireland premises, also located on Main Street, into a restaurant and an apartment.

The closure of AIB 12 years ago marked the beginning of the gradual withdrawal of banking services from the town. Ulster Bank closed its Moville branch in 2015, while Bank of Ireland exited the town six years later, despite appeals at the time from members of the public and local representatives to keep the service open. Inishowen Credit Union now remains the only financial institution operating in Moville.

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A decision on the planning application to convert the former AIB building into apartments is expected from the planning authority by February 12.