One of Kerry’s most famous bars is set to be converted into hotel-style apartments for tourists, under newly-unveiled plans.
Sean Browne, co-owner of JD’s Bar and Venue in Ballybunion, is applying for planning permission to change the use of the iconic nightclub and bar.
If the plans are approved, the bar would become a 16-bedroom aparthotel, with an extension out the back containing 22 residential units.
JD’s in Ballybunion has been a hugely popular bar and nightclub among people from Kerry and visitors alike for decades, particularly during the summer season.
That might be about to change, with a planning application now lodged with Kerry County Council to transform the venue into an aparthotel with residential units out the back.
An aparthotel is described in the planning application as consisting of short-term, hotel-styled, self-contained units.
The application seeks permission to change the use of the premises from public house/late bar, to an aparthotel comprising 16 self-catering bedroom studios, a reception area, and function room.
It also asks for permission to make the necessary internal alterations to the building for the change to aparthotel, as well as changes to the front elevation, the demolition of existing extensions at the back, and a new, three-storey extension to the back of the building.
The bar’s owners are also seeking permission to build 22 residential units on a vacant, greenfield site at the back of the existing building.
That is to include eight three-bed houses, four two-bed houses, and ten apartments, all contained within two and three-storey blocks.
The applicant says they aim to generate a high-quality mix of dwelling and apartment units aimed at the private market, contributing positively to the town of Ballybunion.
The development as a whole is set to be served by 18 car parking spaces.
Kerry County Council is due to decide on the application by 26th November.