Property Description

The subject site comprises a broadly L-shaped site to the rear of Arthur’s Pub, with frontage onto Thomas Court. The site currently comprises a derelict two-storey building with overgrown vegetation to the rear (west) of the site. The site has an area of approximately 306 sq.m. Arthur’s Pub, located immediately north, is a Protected Structure (RPS Ref. 8152) and the site is located to the west of St. Catherine’s Church of Ireland which is also a Protected Structure (RPS Ref. 8153). There is a terrace of 5 no. two-storey dwellings immediately south of the subject site.

Existing Planning

Permission was granted on 24th November 2011 for the following development: the construction of a new 5 storey over basement office building. The works comprise (1) The demolition of all the existing structures on the site. (2) Evacuation of 1 no. level of basement over the entire site. (3) Construction of a 5 storey over basement new office building with main entrance on Thomas Court consisting of; plant rooms, stores and office space at basement level, 5 floors of office space with a set back fourth floor. The proposed development is a total of 1447 sq.m. including basement.

Alternative Scheme

Following an assessment of the subject site, Hughes Planning & Development Consultants consider that there is capacity for the development of a Build-to-Rent block with additional height at the subject site. Development at this site must seek to protect the character of the area and reflect a style of development that preserves the historic character of the Thomas Street and Environs ACA. Lawrence and Long Architects have prepared a development option to accompany this feasibility study. The accompanying drawings prepared by Lawrence and Long Architects outline a proposed Build-to-Rent scheme which provides for 18 no. apartments (17 no. 1-bed and 1 no. 2-bed) over five floors with communal facilities at ground floor level (46 sq.m.) and 1 no. communal roof terrace (160 sq.m.).