An “historic” Lurgan property, which formerly operated as a dental surgery, could be transformed into six self-service short stay apartments, if plans are approved.
The proposals have been put to Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council for consideration by CFG Developments’ directors, Marc Fegan and Charlene Curran.
They relate to 20 Church Place, previously occupied by D. H. Millar Dental Surgery, which lays directly next door to the former home and practice of Dr James Deeny, a Public Health Pioneer.
The application seeks to change the now vacated premises’ internal layout to accommodate six self-service short stay apartments with a second floor extension and refurbishment throughout the entire building.
A letter from the applicant to the planning department explains their intension to “sensitively restore and repurpose” the building to bring the property into “active and sustainable use”.
They argue for the building’s contribution to the town’s “historic fabric” and say their approach to the redevelopment is “guided by a commitment to heritage-led regeneration, ensuring that original architectural elements are retained, restored, and showcased wherever possible.”
Equally, the applicants also express their belief that the project represents an opportunity to support local tourism and economy by “encouraging overnight stays within the town centre, the development will increase footfall and support local businesses, including retail, hospitality, and cultural venues.”
The application also outlines the potential for employment opportunities both during construction and during operations.
The letter continues: “During the construction stage, the project will support local contractors, tradespeople, and suppliers.
“Once operational, the serviced accommodation will create ongoing employment opportunities, including roles in property management, cleaning, maintenance, and administration. These roles will contribute to the local economy and provide sustainable employment within the town centre.”
The applicants have also promised to retain the building’s links to Lurgan’s past.
They say the development will be “sensitively themed to reference the town’s historic linen industry and other key local industries, creating a subtle narrative throughout the building that connects guests to the history of the area”.
This approach is intended to retain a tangible “window to the past”, while delivering a high-quality, modern and luxurious accommodation offering suited to contemporary expectations.
On the ground floor, the plans show a lobby and reception hall immediately off Church Street. This floor will comprise two 1-bedroom apartments with access to a rear patio area, bin storage and laundry collection area.
The first floor – accessed by an internal stairwell – would comprise a further two 1-bedroom apartments with the third floor comprising the final two.
All would have their own private bathrooms and kitchen and living areas.
The application will be advertised shortly.
