Green light given for redevelopment of four-star Mayo hotel

Planning permission has been granted for redevelopment works at a four-star hotel in West Mayo.

Mayo County Council has approved plans submitted by Westport Plaza and Castlecourt Hotel UCL Resort for a series of works at the Castlecourt Hotel in Westport.

The plans include the construction of a single-storey extension to May’s Bistro, located within the hotel’s courtyard. They also provide for the relocation of the courtyard entrance to Petie Joe’s Bar, along with the installation of a new covered entrance at the existing access point.

A number of internal alterations are also in the plans, including the installation of a feature rooflight within the restaurant.

According to the architectural report submitted with the application, the extension to May’s Bistro is required to accommodate growing demand for casual dining from both hotel guests and visitors.

Mayo County Council granted permission subject to six conditions. These include a requirement that any damage caused to the existing public road during the works be reinstated to the satisfaction of the Westport Municipal District Office, in the interest of public safety.

The council also required the payment of a €990 development contribution prior to the commencement of the development.

The contribution may increase in line with the Wholesale Price Index for Building and Construction in January of each year between the date of the grant of permission and the date of payment.

The Castlecourt Hotel was opened in 1970 by Mai and Petie Joe Corcoran and has since expanded to include 162 guest bedrooms. The family-run business is now managed by the second generation of the Corcoran family, Joe Corcoran, Anne Corcoran and Joe’s wife, Anna Marie Corcoran.