Plans have been lodged to transform the former Orchard County Inn into a “high quality” guesthouse with its own health spa.
If given the green light, the ambitious project on Collegelands Road, Charlemont would see the creation of up to 20 new jobs.
The popular former pub has been closed for a number of years and has lay derelict, falling into a state of disrepair, ever since.
However, applicants Dungannon-based Firtree Developments Ltd hope to revitalise the venue, transforming it into a “high quality but affordable accommodation for families and couples”.
The applicant says it is “confident that the proposals will provide a badly needed facility that will be a huge asset for Armagh/Collegeland and surrounding area”.
Adding, the development will “bring positive economic benefits and assisting Council’s tourism strategy in developing orchards into an international visitor experience”.
An assessment of similar developments found there are very few facilities in Northern Ireland that provide bespoke accommodation for families and that, according to the applicant, “there are none in this area”.
The spa is set to include a boutique beauty salon, treatment rooms, gymnasium, and short stay crèche.
The restaurant building will include a function room and two conference rooms with a check-in building, including a gift shop and guest launderette facilities.
And the guesthouse itself will compose of 12 luxury en suite rooms.
Proposals have been submitted to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council for consideration.
A decision is expected in the autumn, with work to begin – should the plans get the thumbs up – before the end of the year.
