Kinsale pub owner calls guesthouse plan 'final nail in coffin for 135-year-old institution'

Brian O’Neill said the proposed three-storey guesthouse next to the Tap Tavern's courtyard area could be a problem when renewing their music licence

Publican Mary O’Neill and her son Brian in the Tap Tavern in Kinsale. Mary is the only locally born publican left in the town. Picture: Dan Linehan

The owners of a well-known pub in Kinsale claim the proposed development of new tourism accommodation in adjoining premises will threaten the future of their business.

Brian O’Neill, who runs the Tap Tavern near the centre of Kinsale with his mother, Mary, has lodged an appeal against the recent decision of Cork County Council to grant planning permission for a new guesthouse with 10 bedrooms near the centre of the town.