Planned tourist accommodation to add to ‘vitality' of Donegal Town
Donegal County Council receives planning permission for tourist accommodation above Bridge Street’s Mo Chlann café
Planning permission has been sought from Donegal County Council for the provision of a new guesthouse accommodation off The Diamond in Donegal Town.
Calbro Properties Ltd, the listed applicant, has sought for the planning permission on the upper floors of the property above the Mo Chlann café, which was previously The Bluestack Bar and Lounge, in Bridge Street, Donegal Town.
Planning is sought for the change of use from a single private residential dwelling unit and alterations made to the property, to provide for seven guest bedrooms for short-term rental/guesthouse type of accommodation, with ancillary rooms and services.
Provision of a fire escape stairs from the first floor to the rear yard is included in the proposals.
Paul Doherty Architects Ltd, on behalf of the applicant, provided a cover letter in support of the applicant. It said: “This property, which is located in Bridge Street, Donegal Town, within one minute walking distance from the Diamond and was previously known as the Bluestack Bar at ground floor with a lounge/dance/function room at the rear and private residential accommodation for the bar owner and his family at first and second floor levels.
“This has been the case since the early 1970s and in late 2025, our clients purchased the property and after some internal refurbishment, continue to run the bar, but now wish to make use of the upper floors by providing tourist accommodation.
“The upper floors are accessed via a dedicated staircase located to the front of the building and also have access to a fire escape at the rear of the building.
“It is proposed to provide seven ensuite bedrooms on a bed-and-breakfast type of accommodation whereby a light breakfast will be available in Mo Chlann which opens from 7.30am and provides coffees, teas and light bakes, scones, croissants, etc.
“The location of the property within such close proximity to The Diamond makes it ideal for tourist accommodation and most importantly ensures the adaptive reuse and continued future use of the upper floors of the building (in accordance with Town Centre First Policy) adding to the vitality and viability of Donegal Town as a tourist destination.
“While the property is not a protected structure, and is not on the NIAH, we acknowledge that it forms an important historical terrace in Bridge Street.”
Donegal County Council has announced a decision due date for the application for December 7.