Plans to demolish former home of famous Limerick writer

COUNCIL is planning to demolish the former home of Bard of Thomond Michael Hogan.

The old Whelan’s Bar at New Road in Thomondgate is known as the place where the famous poet and author resided.

So much so, that Limerick Civic Trust had placed a plaque on its exterior to recognise this fact (see below).

Now, the council is planning to demolish the old pub and replace it with six new homes.

The move has sparked opposition among local residents, who are gearing up to protest against it.

“You cannot be demolishing a piece of our history,” said Pat Murphy, one of those who lives in the immediate vicinity of the former pub, which closed more than a decade ago.

Sean McIlfatrick, a member of the Thomondgate Residents Association accused council of “not giving any regard to the historical importance of the building”.

A local authority spokesperson disputed this, saying: “The council has been considerate of this building’s association with the Bard of Thomond. However, the building has been altered from its original 19th century form, including extensive additions to the rear and side of the building, the replacement of the original windows with inappropriate, modern windows and the loss of the original roof covering.”

“It appears the front and side elevations are the only elements remaining,” council added.

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The council said it had initial plans to retain the building, but added a structural engineer advised to demolish.

This was, they said, because sections of the floors are collapsed, and it’s now unsafe to enter the building.

Notably, since the local authority owns the building, councillors will have the chance to veto the application to demolish it.

The six new homes planned are comprised of four one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom homes.

Given their key role, it’s likely the area’s seven councillors will face calls to vote to reject the application.

Mr McIlfatrick said he and other residents will continue to push for the building to remain.

“There are derelict properties all over the country in various states of disrepair. There are people restoring these buildings, the fabric of these historic buildings, retrofitting and bringing them back into use. So why can’t the council do this,” he asked.

“Every effort should be made to keep the building, restore it, and leave it intact.”

Tony Browne of Limerick Historical Society has held lectures outside the premises, and believes it dates back over 150 years.
“It’s terrible really,” he said, confirming he will object.

Council said the Bard of Thomond will be commemorated with a plaque on any new building.