Derelict Ballinasloe pub to become modern 16-home community
The landmark Dooley's pub building in Ballinasloe is set to be transformed as part of a 16-unit residential housing development in the centre of the town.
Work on the Dunlo Hill site will include the renovation and extension of the existing terraced buildings and the conversion of the currently derelict Dooley’s pub from a public house to include a community space.
Plans for the residential housing development comprise of ten two-storey one-bed dwellings, two two-storey two-bed dwellings, one single-storey one-bed apartment, one duplex one-bed apartment, and two duplex two-bed apartments.
Galway County Council signed contracts with Custy Construction Ltd and OBFA Architects for the delivery of the scheme, which is being financed under the Government’s Housing For All programme and directly by the Local Authority.
Councillor Martina Kinane, Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway, said: “This is a milestone scheme for Galway County Council and the town of Ballinasloe that will bring about the transformation of a derelict site into a vibrant new community space and residential development.
"With 16 modern residential units and a restored community facility, this initiative marks a significant step forward in revitalising the town centre while meeting the housing needs of our community."
Michael Owens, Director of Services for Housing with Galway County Council, explained that the initial construction phase of the development will include the partial demolition of outbuildings and sheds to the rear courtyard areas, and the construction of a new single-storey extension to the rear of Dooley’s pub.
He noted that the existing rear courtyard would be adapted to create a new pedestrian route through the development that will open the project towards the community, while renewable energy design measures will be implemented in the new community facility and housing units.
“The project seeks to bring back to life existing houses which have been unoccupied for a considerable length of time and have fallen into a derelict state,” he added.
“The retention of Dooley’s Pub to include a community space will help strengthen the place of this project within the Ballinasloe community.”