Plans to turn former hair salon into short-term let unit in Augher

A PLANNING application has been lodged for the conversion of a former hair salon into an Airbnb-style short-term let unit at 45 Main Street, Augher.

The plans also include minor alterations to the front and side of the terraced property.

The planning application, which is still at an early stage, was lodged on October 1 by Bernard J. Donnelly Architectural Services, Ballygawley, on behalf of Ryan McElroy, Favour Royal Road, Augher.

A Design and Access Statement, submitted with the planning application, describes the plans as follows: “This Design and Access Statement has been prepared in support of an application for the change of use of the existing vacant retail unit at 45 Main Street, Augher, to provide short-term visitor accommodation operated as an Airbnb/short-term rental unit.

“The existing property was previously used as a retail unit and is currently vacant. It is proposed to bring the premises back into beneficial use as a small-scale, short-term rental accommodation unit.

“The accommodation will provide temporary visitor accommodation for individuals, couples or small groups visiting the local area.

“The proposal will involve the removal of the existing shop front and its replacement with a new window and door arrangement.

“The new frontage will be designed to give the property a more residential appearance, appropriate to its proposed use as short-term accommodation, while remaining sympathetic to the character and appearance of the surrounding Main Street.

“The overall form and scale of the existing building will be retained. No significant structural alterations are proposed. Internally, the existing premises will be adapted as necessary to provide suitable accommodation, living, kitchen and sanitary facilities.

“The proposal will bring a currently vacant retail premises back into active and beneficial use as short-term visitor accommodation.

“The proposal represents an appropriate reuse of an existing premises and will contribute to the continued vitality of Main Street, Augher.”