Planning go-ahead given for the development of a restaurant at iconic Tipperary site

The planning go-ahead has been given for the development of a new restaurant in  Clonmel .

Tipperary County Council has granted planning permission to Clonmel-based Camida for a change of use of Fintan Kennedy Hall, the former Methodist church, at Anglesea Street in Clonmel.

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The landmark building, which has not been in use for some years, is to be transformed into a restaurant.
An Architectural Heritage Impact Assessment submitted with the application stated that Fintan Kennedy Hall (the former Clonmel Wesleyan Methodist Chapel) was a heritage asset of regional significance, protected under local and national legislation.

“Its architectural, historical,and social values derive from its Gothic Revival design, its role in the religious and communal history of Clonmel, and its successful adaptation to new uses.

The adaptive reuse strategy proposed in the change of use submission will contribute to the building’s preservation and enhancement by securing sustainable occupation and use.

The proposed restaurant use will contribute to the social and community use of Clonmel town and surrounds.
The cumulative impact of the reclamation of a building that was at risk of vacancy and dereliction is positive, promoting ongoing usage and enhancing both the building and its setting within the urban context of Clonmel Town,” stated the assessment.

The assessment said the structure required sensitive repair, in line with conservation best practice.

“We believe the impact analysis of the proposed works have balanced current building regulations with heritage considerations using conservation sensitive design interventions.

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The proposed works will both preserve and animate this iconic site while fitting harmoniously into the urban, social and environmental fabric of Clonme,” said the assessment.