Appeal lodged for Narraghmore tourist accommodation
Mel's Pub Narraghmore
AN APPEAL has been lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála following Kildare County Council’s refusal of planning permission for a proposed artist’s workshop and accommodation pods in Narraghmore.
The application, submitted by Melanie Treacy, sought permission for a multi-element development at Mel’s Pub, Narraghmore. Plans include the refurbishment and alteration of an existing grain store to provide an artist’s workshop, the erection of 12 accommodation pods, and the extension and change of use of an existing machinery shed to provide two guest bedrooms and a reception or waiting area.
The proposal also involved an extension to the existing car park, providing 26 additional parking spaces, including facilities for electric vehicle charging, as well as the upgrade and relocation of the existing wastewater treatment system, together with all associated site works.
Kildare County Council refused permission for the development, citing concerns regarding the proposed wastewater treatment system and its potential impact on the environment.
In addition, the council found that the proposal did not comply with the standards set out in the Environmental Protection Agency’s ‘Wastewater treatment manual for small communities, business, leisure centres and hotels’, particularly in relation to system design, effluent disposal, site characterisation and operational oversight.
The planning authority concluded that, as proposed, the development would be prejudicial to public health and would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
The applicant has since appealed the decision to An Coimisiún Pleanála, with a determination on the case due to be made by 20 April 2026.
