Plans blocked to demolish hotel in Owenahincha to build houses

Developers had sought permission to knock down derelict buildings of the hotel, which closed over 30 years ago.

Owenahincha Beach in West Cork. Picture: Dan Linehan

An Taisce and a retired Wall Street investment banker have blocked plans by developers to demolish a former hotel in West Cork to facilitate a housing development which opponents claimed posed a risk of pollution in Rosscarbery Bay.

An Bord Pleanála has upheld an appeal by the heritage body and Stephen Evans-Freke against the decision of Cork County Council to approve the proposed demotion of the former Owenahincha Hotel at Little Island, Owenahincha, to allow the construction of nine houses on the site.