Planning sought for extension of historic Donegal pub and restaurant
Biddy’s O’Barnes has served customers in the Barnesmore Gap since the 1870s
Planning permission has been sought for the extension of a historic Donegal pub and restaurant located in the scenic Barnesmore Gap.
The listed applicants, Megan Wilkes and Aaron Slevin,’ have submitted an application for a proposed development for Biddy’s O’Barnes public house and restaurant.
Plans consist of the construction of a side and rear single-storey extension to the existing public house to accommodate a new restaurant and dining area, a commercial kitchen, additional customer toilet facilities, and ancillary storage and utility areas.
Included in the proposals are another single-storey side extension to the existing coffee shop, known as The Byre at Biddy’s, to provide an expanded indoor seating area, a deli counter, and associated storage.
The demolition and removal of the existing temporary beer garden seating area and side entrance porch is included in the submitted plans.
Biddy’s O’Barnes was described as “a landmark hospitality venue that has served travellers, visitors and the local community for over 150 years,” occupying a site in the foothills of the Bluestack Mountains.
The pub was established in the 1870s by Denis and Bridget (‘Biddy’) Callaghan, and originally operated as a coaching inn serving travellers crossing the Barnesmore Gap, during the era of horse-drawn transport.
Biddy’s O’Barne’s subsequently became “one of the earliest licensed public houses in County Donegal and remains an important heritage landmark.”
It was stated in the application that “its location is closely associated with the former West Donegal Railway, remnants of which remain visible within Barnesmore Gap and form an important part of the area's cultural heritage.”
The rationale for the submitted applications was provided in supporting documents written by Dreyer Architects on behalf of the listed applicants. It was stated: “The expansion reflects the growing demand for a food-led, all-year-round visitor offering rather than a solely seasonal or drinks-based facility.”
Donegal County Council has yet to announce a decision due date for the submitted planning application.