The Irish Times

An Bord Pleanála has given permission for the conversion of a protected structure on the quays in Ballina, Co Mayo, into a 24-bedroom hotel. The hotel and spa, proposed by Dublin-based accountant Pearse Farrell, has been opposed locally since first mooted last year. Mr Farrell bought the Ice House for more than €1 million from the North Western Regional Fisheries Board. Seven appeals were lodged with an Bord Pleanála last May, after Ballina Town Council granted planning permission to Mr Farrell to develop the derelict building, which is on the banks of the river Moy, into a multimillion hotel and spa. The residents have concerns about traffic and the safety of pedestrians, noise pollution, and parking.