Potential Residential Transformation for Vacant Premises in Gowna
A two-storey vacant building located in the heart of one of Cavan’s most picturesque villages is on the verge of a significant change. The property, situated at the crossroads of the lakeside village, has been the focus of several development proposals over the years. Now, a Dublin-based construction company has submitted new plans to convert the premises into residential apartments.
Gowna Construction Ltd has presented its latest proposal to Cavan County Council, aiming to redevelop the currently unoccupied building into a series of modern living spaces. This move comes after multiple applications and planning approvals that have shaped the property’s potential over the past two decades.
Initially, the site was considered for a mixed-use development. The original plan included a ground-floor retail space along with seven one-bedroom apartments on the upper floor. These were designed to meet the needs of the local tourism industry, with approval granted in June 2003. Subsequent applications followed, including one in March 2004 that proposed a fully serviced two-storey mixed-use development. This would have included a commercial unit on the ground floor and a guest house on the first floor. Another application in November 2004 expanded on these ideas.
In 2008, additional plans were submitted to convert part of the guesthouse into a self-service laundrette. These were approved, albeit with three specific conditions. Despite these earlier developments, the building remained vacant for many years.
Now, Gowna Construction Ltd is looking to take a different approach. The company wants to transform the existing commercial units on both the ground and first floors into nine residential apartments. The design includes five one-bedroom units, three two-bedroom apartments that can accommodate up to four people, and an additional smaller two-bedroom apartment intended for three individuals.
The proposed layout aims to provide flexible living options that could appeal to a range of residents, from singles to small families. This shift from commercial to residential use reflects changing demands in the local housing market.
A final decision on the current plans is expected by September 9. If approved, this development could bring much-needed housing to the area while preserving the historical character of the village.
This project highlights the ongoing efforts to revitalize underused properties in rural Ireland. As communities seek to balance preservation with progress, such developments offer a way to meet modern needs without compromising the charm of traditional settings.
