Community group asks councillors to reconsider design proposal for Athlone protected structure
A local community group has raised concerns regarding proposed development works to Auburn House, a protected structure on Connaught Street, Athlone, warning that the plans could significantly alter the character of one of the area’s historic buildings.
Connaught Street & Environs Community Group has called on elected members of Westmeath County Council to carefully consider the long-term implications of the proposal, which includes the demolition of an existing rear extension and outbuilding, its replacement with a new four-storey structure, and substantial internal alterations.
The project involves the development of three social housing units at the building, acquired by the council in recent years after it had been vacant for some time.
The matter is due to be considered by councillors today, Monday, ahead of a vote under the Part 8 planning mechanism through which the elected members opt whether to approve the development or not, on foot of a report from the council executive.
At the outset, the group has emphasised that its request is solution-focused and not an objection. It has stated that it is not opposed to residential development on the site in principle and supports the delivery of new homes. However, the group believes the same number of residential units can be achieved through a more appropriate, conservation-led and potentially more cost-effective design approach that respects the protected structure.
“Auburn House is an important part of the historic fabric of Connaught Street,” a spokesperson for the group said. “We fully support housing delivery, but we believe it can be achieved through a more sensitive design that respects the building’s character. A well-considered alternative could deliver the same number of homes without compromising its heritage value.”
The group notes that Auburn House was included in the Record of Protected Structures following its adoption by elected members as part of the 2014–2020 Development Plan. This designation reflects the recognised architectural and heritage significance of the building and the associated objective to safeguard its character, including its internal features, external fabric and curtilage. The group suggests that these considerations remain central to the assessment of any proposals affecting the property.
The proposal currently under consideration involves replacing an existing 2.5-storey rear extension with a new four-storey structure. The group believes that this increase in scale and height would be out of keeping with the original building, which dates back to the early 1800s, and could dominate the historic structure.
“The scale and design of the proposed four-storey extension would dominate the original structure and materially alter its character, contrary to the fundamental principles governing Protected Structures,” the group stated, noting that protected status applies not only to the exterior but also to the interior and the curtilage of the property.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the historical significance of features within the site, including boundary walls bearing inscriptions dating to 1812 and a rear mews building that forms part of the original historic layout.
"Referring to this structure as a ‘shed’ risks understating its significance, as it was in fact form part of the original historic layout and can be seen on the first edition OSI maps. It also has a social history evidenced by photographs dating back to the early 20th century. It should be properly assessed before any decision on demolition is made,” the group said.
As an alternative, the community group is advocating for a conservation-led approach that would include removal of the later rear extension, restoration of the original rear façade, and preservation and repair of the mews building and boundary walls. They believe this approach would protect the integrity of the protected structure while supporting appropriate development and regeneration.
“Sensitive restoration and appropriate-scale development can both protect our heritage and contribute positively to regeneration,” the spokesperson added.
The group has written to councillors individually, inviting each member to assess the proposal independently on its own planning merits ahead of the forthcoming Part 8 vote. The group stated that, based on professional advice, it believes there are strong and reasonable grounds to support a revised and more robust approach.
The group has also pointed to the broader context of heritage change in the area over time and has urged councillors to consider the lasting impact of their decision.
“Councillors will be aware that, over time, elements of Athlone’s historic fabric have been lost through past decisions. In that context, consideration of this proposal represents not just a decision for today, but a lasting legacy for the current Council in how it safeguards the town’s remaining built heritage.”
In a final appeal ahead of the council’s meeting, the group called for a balanced and forward-looking approach.
“We acknowledge the opportunity before elected members to demonstrate leadership in shaping the long-term legacy of the Athlone Regeneration Plan, particularly in supporting the sensitive evolution of Connaught Street as a vibrant Cultural Quarter.”
The group has requested that councillors review the proposal carefully prior to the upcoming vote, emphasising that a revised approach could both deliver housing and preserve an important part of Athlone’s architectural heritage.