The former Bank of Ireland branch in Keady is to find new use as a seasonal goods store.
The planning application was lodged by NI Planning Consultants, Armagh, on behalf of Margerite McCooey, Tullynawood Road, Keady.
In their report, ABC planning officers explain that current policy seeks to promote the revitalisation of town centres: “The application site is located at 14-16 Kinelowen Street, Keady.
“The Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) seeks to secure a ‘town centre first’ approach for the location of future retailing and other main town centre uses.
“Officers are of the opinion that a seasonal goods shop falls within the acceptable uses to be located within the town centre, and the proposal is considered to be acceptable in principle.
“The application as submitted does not propose any external alterations to the host building.
“Internally, it is proposed to change the use of rooms from offices and ancillary uses (including a kitchen, staff room and storage rooms), to goods display areas and customer circulation areas.”
Although the building is not listed, there are a number of other properties nearby which are listed, and planning officers are recommending discreet alterations to the frontage of the former bank: “We welcome the proposed retention of the existing rendered façade, and recommend discreet placement and specification of light fittings on any historic street frontage, see for example the treatment on the front façade of the former [Danske] Bank, 21 Kinelowen Street.”
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