Plans for large three-storey Airbnb complex beside Kilkenny’s Rothe House

By COLIN BARTLEY

KILKENNY County Council has received a planning application for an Airbnb style development to be built right beside one of our most historical medieval buildings.

The application proposes to build a three-storey building adjacent to the 17th-century merchant’s house and popular Kilkenny city tourist attraction, Rothe House.

Martin Gittens, who made the application, is seeking permission to build five single-bedroom apartments to be used for short term lettings and holiday accommodation.

Earlier this year the Government brought in new planning rules for Airbnb type lettings in rent pressure zones (RPZ). The whole of Kilkenny county was reclassified an RPZ in July.

Mr Gitten’s application is the first received by the council for Airbnb type accommodation in the city. The council received one other application under the new planning rules for a building in Castlewarren, Inistioge.

Mr Gittens application is located within the City Centre Architectural Conservation Area on Evans Lane, just off Parliament Street. This means the council applies strict conditions to any construction within that area.

As well as the five single-bed apartments, the application is looking to create three car spaces at ground level.