Developers seek to turn property on Laois Main Street into guesthouse

Plans have been lodged to convert a building into a guesthouse on the Main Street in Mountrath. 

JPRT Properties Ltd and EDH Properties Ltd are in discussions with the housing section of Laois County Council in relation to the plans. 

The Dublin and Offaly based property companies are seeking permission to carry out work at the property on Main Street, Mountrath where O'Rourke's Pharmacy is located. 

This includes “change of use of existing dwelling house to commercial guesthouse in its current layout as submitted under 7-day notice reg ref: SN0010485LS for completeness.” 

The planning application is also seeking to remove a shop front and install two windows and  “construct a single storey extension to the rear of the property consisting of six en-suite bedrooms, plant room, covered walkway, landscaping and all associated site works.”

Retention planning permission is being sought for the demolition of rear outbuildings the applicant states were structurally unsafe and works to the rear of the property  

Documents lodged with the planning application state that a deal has been reached to sell some land to a nearby school. 

“We would like to note that the plot of land to the rear, outside of the red line boundary but within the client's ownership has been agreed to be sold to Clonenagh National School adjacent to the site along with a right of way to develop an all-weather pitch for the school and general public,” a document from an engineer for the owners states. 

“It should also be noted that engagement between the client and Laois CoCo housing department over the future occupation of the building is currently being progressed,” they added. 

Plans for the development were lodged with Laois County Council on December 20 and a decision is expected to be made by February 22.