Historic Co Londonderry country pub set to be converted into flats..'with minimal changes to the existing building structure'

A former country pub in Londonderry is set for a new lease of life, with plans submitted to convert the vacant building into six self-contained flats.

The premises, located at 93 Bond’s Glen Road, were previously known as Reilly’s Inn and the Bond’s Glen Bar.

A planning application lodged with Derry City and Strabane District Council proposes a material change of use from bar/restaurant to residential accommodation, all within the existing footprint of the building. The proposal also intends to retain the current site entrance, car parking, sewerage system, and septic tank facilities.

A design and access statement compiled by Sperrin Design Safety and submitted in support of the application states: “The initial proposal aims to transform the former 'Bar Restaurant' landmark building originally known as Reilly’s Inn and formerly known as Bonds Glen Bar/Restaurant into six number self-contained flats – apartments, all within the existing building floor print with minimal changes to the existing building structure.”

The statement describes the building as a long-standing local landmark that has existed for “several decades” as a public house.

It continued: "There has been a history of the existence of a public house at this location dating back before 1993 the exact date is to be determined. This building was a single storey cottage that was used as a public house, so the front stone building dated back to at least the early 1900’s.

"The existing building has been modernised and extended in 1994 to its current standard.”

If approved, the project will see the historic bar reimagined for residential use while preserving its longstanding architectural character.