Plans to transform famous Kilkenny pub into apartments on ice after objection

Plans to transform a historic building in a Kilkenny village have been stalled after an objection to the development was lodged with the national planning authority.

It comes after Kilkenny County Council granted developers Walsh Sheehan Investments Limited permission to build six new residential units on the site on The Square in Johnstown, better known as The Ouncel pub, late last month.

However, an objection to the council’s ruling has been made to An Bord Pleanála, which is now considering the matter.

Walsh Sheehan received permission for a change of use from commercial zoning to residential zoning at the Ouncel, overcoming local concerns regarding a parking plan and a right of way of an adjoining walkway.

The developers want to transform The Ouncel into four one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom, two-storey detached homes.

Under the plans, part of the existing structure would be demolished, as well as modifications to the existing structure and the building’s façade.

A decision on the development is now expected by the end of April 2021.