'An opportunity to regenerate a previously developed brownfield site': Former Belfast pub earmarked for demolition as plans lodged for 14 new apartments
Former McKenna's Public House on Crumlin Road could be transformed with studios, one-bedroom homes and shared facilities
An application lodged with Belfast City Council seeks permission to knock down the former McKenna's Public House in the Ballysillan area of the upper Crumlin Road, and construct a residential scheme on the vacant site.
It has been lodged by Laurence McDaid of Shorts Visits Ltd.
The proposed development would deliver 14 self-contained apartments, comprising 11 one-bed studio units and three one-bedroom apartments.
The plans also include communal facilities incluidng a common room, two kitchens, a shared roof terrace and secure cycle parking as part of the redevelopment.
A design and access statement prepared by ASIKO Architects and submitted with the application said the existing building had become a negative feature of the surrounding area.
It stated: "Historically occupied by a licensed public house, the building has remained vacant and no longer makes a positive contribution to the vitality, appearance or economic function of the surrounding area. Its architectural form, characterised by a flat roof, irregular floor levels and fragmented internal arrangement, contrasts unfavourably with the predominantly Victorian and Edwardian built form that defines this section of the Crumlin Road.
"The proposed redevelopment provides an opportunity to regenerate a previously developed brownfield site through the delivery of a well-designed residential building that responds positively to its urban context."
The statement added that the project would bring investment and economic benefits to the area adding: "Redevelopment of the site represents a significant private investment within the local area.
"Construction activity will generate employment whilst the completed development will increase local expenditure within nearby businesses and services."