Transformation of landmark building in picturesque Kilkenny village held up by planning chiefs

Plans to create a new café and holiday apartments in one of Kilkenny’s most picturesque villages has been delayed.

The building and restaurant known as Circle of Friends in Bank House on Inistioge’s High Street was all set to undergo a major transformation which would have included the construction of a new café/restaurant and four new Airbnb-style apartments on the upper floors.

Kilkenny County Council approved the plans for Circle of Friends in back in January.

However, An Bord Pleanála have intervened and are examining the disability certificate required to complete the development.

Under its last guise, the Circle of Friends – named after the Maeve Binchy novel whose film adaptation was shot in the village – had a retail unit on the ground floor and a restaurant on the first floor.

The plans submitted by the Johnnie McGrath (Approved Retirement Fund) and approved by Kilkenny County Council would see the café/restaurant move to a more accessible location on the ground floor.

The first and second floors would be converted into two one-bedroom studio apartments for short-term holiday lettings.

Bank House is a listed/protected building for conservation under the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage.

An Bord Pleanála’s decision is expected early in the New Year.