Housing, public park and playground approved for Old Mill site in Julianstown

Proposals for housing, shops, a public park and playground at the Old Mill site in Julianstown have been granted planning permission.

The site of the 18th century mill, which has been lying idle for almost two decades, was once a very popular hotel and night club but for years has been regarded as one of East Meath's biggest eyesores and has been on the derelict sites register since 2018.

The planning permission granted to Casana Developments Limited is for a mixed-use development comprising residential, retail, pharmacy, café, medical and community uses. A riverside park is also proposed as part of the development. A total of 62 dwellings are proposed in a mix of terraced houses, apartments and duplex units ranging in size from one to three bedrooms. The development involves the conservation and re-use of two protected derelict structures on the site. The ‘Mill House’ is to be repurposed to accommodate a new medical centre. This will involve the demolition and removal of non-original fabric, including the demolition of a single storey garage to the west as well as the removal of limited sections of internal walls and the conservation and repair of surviving historic fabric.

Cllr McKee said: “I am pleased that planning permission has been granted for what will be an important new development for Julianstown. The proposed development will comprise 62 new homes, retail, a pharmacy, a café, a medical centre along with a riverside park and scenic walking trail for use by the whole community.

“Though once a prominent Julianstown landmark and very popular Hotel, the Old Mill site has been derelict and an eyesore for almost 20 years, so it is very positive to see the site finally being revitalised and put back to use for the community.

“This project has the potential to be a high-quality public realm that will enhance the quality of life for residents of Julianstown of all ages, providing new homes, services, economic activity and a recreational amenity in the form of a riverside park with a playground for local families and children.”

Cllr McKee said he was pleased that the 18th-century Mill structures will be adapted and restored as part of the project.

“Julianstown has rich architecture and heritage and this must be protected as we seek progress in the village.

“This development represents an opportunity for Julianstown while ensuring that growth is supported by appropriate investment in public infrastructure. There must be a clear commitment therefore by Meath County Council to address the long-term traffic and transport challenges facing Julianstown through a new public consultation and engagement process that looks at every available option,”he said.

“Residents have understandable concerns about congestion, road safety and the impact of additional traffic on the existing road network. These issues need to be resolved while we also strive to improve the quality of life for Julianstown residents by providing infrastructure and services,” he concluded.