Haddington⁢ Road Pub and Apartment Plan Approved‍ Despite ‘Superpub’ Fears

An bord Pleanála has granted‌ planning​ permission for the ⁤demolition⁤ of existing buildings at 10 Haddington Road and ‍their replacement with a four-storey, part five-storey mixed-use ​development, featuring a pub and six residential units. The decision comes despite local opposition, including concerns from the Pembroke Road Association about the potential for a ‍”superpub.”

The appeals ⁢board overturned Dublin City Council’s initial decision to grant permission to Courtney Lounge Bars‌ Ltd. The approved scheme ​will see the construction of a new building with⁤ a pub located at basement and ground floor levels, with the six apartments occupying the upper floors.

An Bord Pleanála cited the development’s proximity to community services and social facilities,the ‍existing character of the⁤ area,and the design,scale,and layout of the proposed building ‌as key ⁢factors in its decision. ‌The board ⁤concluded that, subject to specific​ conditions, the development would be an “acceptable quantum of development in this accessible urban location” and would not negatively impact ‌the residential or visual amenities of the area, nor detract from its character or built heritage.

A significant condition ⁢imposed by the board is that the pub’s outdoor seating area must close by⁣ 10 pm each ⁣night.

The inspector⁤ for the case, Ian Boyle,⁤ found that the proposed design would ⁢ensure sufficient privacy and residential amenity⁣ for neighbouring properties. In⁤ his 44-page report, Mr. Boyle suggested that ⁢the ⁢higher-density, mixed-use development would ⁣contribute positively to the‍ evolving urban character of the area.

He noted that the‍ customer area of the new pub would ⁣be marginally smaller than‌ the existing premises, ⁤measuring 134 sqm compared to the current ‍140 sqm. Furthermore,⁢ Mr. Boyle highlighted that modern building regulations would necessitate enhanced‍ sound insulation for the new pub. This,he stated,would ⁢lead to ‍a reduction in noise levels during busy periods,benefiting both existing residents and future apartment occupants.

The Pembroke Road Association had previously expressed⁤ concerns to ⁣the ⁣council, stating that while a local pub can be a valuable social amenity, ​a “super” pub in a ‌mixed residential area presents a ⁣problem. Their objections, along with those from R John ⁢McBratney and others, were lodged against Dublin City Council’s initial approval.

This decision follows renewed objections from Dublin 4 residents regarding the renovation of Smyth’s pub, indicating‍ ongoing community engagement with development proposals in the area.