New city centre boutique hotel is given the go-ahead

Planning permission has been approved for the refurbishment of some buildings in Foyle Street and Shipquay Place to allow for the development of a new proposed 24 bed boutique hotel with bar and restaurant facilities.

The application is for the refurbishment and extension of the buildings at 1-4 Shipquay Place as well as 7-17 Foyle Street, but does not include the corner buildings which are part of the Gainsborough Bar or the former Madden’s tobacconist buildings.

The proposal also includes a bar/restaurant area and an Italian restaurant.

As part of the overall proposal there were two applications, one for the full application and one for the listed building consent.

Members of the planning committee were informed at the meeting that no objections were received in relation to the application and that all consultations with relevant bodies has taken place and been approved with conditions.

Speaking after the meeting the council chief executive, John Kelpie, said that council, in its role as the new local planning authority, was pleased to play its part in the delivery of new infrastructural tourism developments that would serve the tourism and cultural offering of the city and district, in keeping with the objectives of the Community Plan.

“This proposal is an important development that will enhance regenerate a listed building that forms part of a key cluster of landmark buildings and spaces that are significant to the special built heritage in our town centre,” he said.

Described as a “major planning application” it was received and made valid by the Council in November 2015 and was made on behalf of Elm Village Company Limited, 7 Northland Road and ASI Architects.

The application was presented to the Planning Committee of Derry City and Strabane District Council on May 18, 2016, with a recommendation to approve.