Mount Juliet Hotel Expansion Placed on Hold by Kilkenny County Council
Plans by Barry English to expand the five-star Mount Juliet hotel in Thomastown, County Kilkenny, have been put on hold by Kilkenny County Council following concerns raised by neighboring landowners, including a stud operation owned by US billionaire John Malone. English’s Golden Beam Hospitality Ltd lodged an application in August for 19 new guest suites and spa facilities, which include 13 treatment rooms and an indoor thermal spa at the Mount Juliet estate.
The proposed development involves the partial demolition of an existing two-storey extension on the south wing of the Manor House hotel at the resort, alongside the construction of a new two-storey extension. Responding in a communication asking for modified designs, the council noted that although it appreciates the ongoing tourism and expansion progress at Mount Juliet, the developer is encouraged to evaluate an alternate site for the project that can blend more effectively into the property while preserving the unique traits of Manor House.
Ballylinch Stud Raises Concerns Over Protected Views
Planning consultants acting for Ballylinch Stud submitted objections to Kilkenny County Council regarding the impact of the hospitality scheme on designated protected views. Situated near Thomastown, Ballylinch Stud characterizes itself as a premier European breeding facility for thoroughbred racehorses.
‘Protected views’ That is a new one Stud owned by billionaire John Malone concerned over Mount Juliet expansion plan https://t.co/rO9ZAUnXXd
In his filing regarding the Mount Juliet project, architect Barry Lynch pointed out that Ballylinch Stud specifically worries about the loss of official protected views that breach the aims outlined in the Kilkenny Development Plan. Lynch argued that two of the protected views are now compromised and seriously affected by this proposal.
Estate Property Owners Object to Manor House Alterations
Separate objections were lodged by CCH Architects on behalf of a number of property owners on the Mount Juliet Estate. Arthur Hickey, speaking for the firm, noted that Mount Juliet was a beautiful 18th century example of a large estate house.
According to Hickey, the proposed addition would roughly triple the current footprint of the ground floor and completely undermine the architectural authenticity of the existing structure. The submission argued that large interventions will make this large country house into something which it is not.
What Happens Next for Golden Beam Hospitality
Kilkenny County Council has placed the project on hold. Golden Beam Hospitality Ltd must now decide whether to submit revised plans.
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