Concerns raised over student halls development at old Limerick hotel

HERITAGE group An Taisce has expressed a number of concerns over plans to transform an old hotel in Limerick city into student accommodation.

Businessman Mark McMahon secured conditional permission from council to redevelop the former Railway Hotel, opposite Colbert Station in the city centre.

The proposal would see 111 student bed spaces across 25 apartments at the former hostelry, which ceased trading in 2016.

On top of this, the neighbouring former McEnery's general store is slated for demolition, with a cafe taking its place and a seven-storey building behind the existing listed hotel.

However, Ian Lumley, head of strategy with An Taisce has lodged an appeal with An Bord Pleanala on behalf of the group.

The national planning appeals body is expected to make a final decision on whether the project goes ahead by November.

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Among An Taisce’s concerns is what it feels is a “lack of amenity” for any new residents at the student halls.

Mr Lumley predicted that the development could see between 140 and 200 temporary and permanent residents and visitors.

“It is not good enough to say that the residents can treat the People’s Park or the stone benches on the adjacent railway station forecourt as their main outdoor social space. The park of course closes at dusk (5pm in winter). Where is the provision for some planting within, on or beside the building? Has any consideration been given to the use of the considerable amount of roof space for planting and outdoor seating,” he asked.

Mr Lumley also complained about “poor connectivity” for those using bikes, and the height of the new seven-storey complex, which he believes will impinge on the city's Georgian appearance.

“The proposed building will be the first sight that meets the eye on arrival at Limerick station, and should it go ahead, it will not be a pretty one. The view from Davis Street is particularly stark and will overwhelm all its neighbours, two and occasionally three-storey buildings,” Mr Lumley wrote.

The view of An Taisce Limerick, he said, is buildings higher than six-storeys should not be built within or nearby the Georgian Quarter.