Permission granted to redevelop ‘historic’ building in Longford town

Planning permission has been granted to redevelop the former Ulster Bank building in Longford town.

The application, which was submitted by Maniker Ltd, details plans for a complete revamp of the building at 54 Main Street, Longford.

The ground floor will be converted into a space suitable for a commercial outlet or café, with a wine bar, food outlet and office space.

As part of this development, the existing single-storey extension at the back of the building will be demolished and replaced by a new extension.

The existing ground floor windows, front facade and door will also be redesigned.

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As well as that, the first and second floors of the building will provide space for two apartments. Drains will be replaced or repaired where necessary and ancillary works will also be undertaken.

In a submission, the Department of Housing, Heritage and Local Government said it is “very supportive” of the proposed redevelopment of the building.

However, it raised concerns that the removal of “historic glass” from the original windows and their replacement with new double glazed units will involve “the significant and unnecessary loss of historic fabric”.

The building, which was previously occupied by Ulster Bank, is a protected structure under the Longford County Development Plan 2021-2027.