1) Change of use of former convent building

The former convent on Convent Road in Ballinamore, Co Leitrim, is set to be transformed into an aparthotel and restaurant after planning permission was granted by Leitrim County Council. The developer, Hugh Murray, has applied for a change of use that will see the historic building, its chapel and outbuildings repurposed for hospitality purposes.

Under the approved scheme the convent will house twelve rooms spread over the first and second floors, while the ground floor will accommodate a café, restaurant and reception area. The plan also includes the installation of a new lift to improve accessibility, a single‑storey kitchen extension at the rear of the building, and a glass porch with covered outdoor seating adjacent to the proposed café on the south elevation. A link corridor is to be constructed to connect the convent block with the existing outbuildings, and on‑site car parking will be provided along with connections to all public services and ancillary works.

The project has received growing support from local residents and business owners, as reported by the Leitrim Observer. The Irish Independent confirmed that permission had been granted for the conversion of the former convent into an aparthotel and restaurant, signalling a positive outcome for the development proposal.

If approved, the redevelopment will preserve the historic fabric of the convent while giving it new life as a boutique accommodation and dining destination in Ballinamore. For further details readers can consult the council planning file and the coverage by the Irish Independent and Leitrim Observer.

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