By Ryan Sands
PLANS to extend a Rostrevor pub have been given the green light.
A proposal to enlarge Bridge Street’s Corner House Bar to incorporate the neighbouring Centra and Post Office – submitted by Mourne Food and Drink Ltd in July 2025 – was recently approved by council planners.
A planning report highlighted that the site is ‘a listed building located within the settlement limit of Rostrevor’ and that changing the use of the adjacent premises would ‘see the existing Corner House Bar extended internally into this area’.
It also stated that the bar is ‘long-established within the village’ and that it is ‘considered that the proposed use of this building and site is appropriate in land use terms’.
‘It is noted this change of use will result in the loss of an existing retail shop; however, it is considered the land use proposed is appropriate to and will complement the existing uses found in the immediate area and is in accordance with the area plan and Strategic Planning Policy Statement,’ the document read.
‘There are no external changes to the listed building, so visually the setting of the special character of this conservation area will not change.
‘Historic Environment Division (Department for Communities) are content that the proposal will help secure upkeep and survival of the listed building.’
The report acknowledged that 16 letters of objection were submitted over the course of the application process.
‘Neighbours raised concerns that the introduction of amplified outdoor entertainment could harm the area’s historic character and tranquillity and could cause long-term harm to its cultural and architectural value,’ it continued.
‘However, the application does not facilitate any outdoor entertainment or any other outdoor activity.
‘The application – if approved – may potentially result in an increase in the number of people visiting the pub, thus an increase in footfall, with people entering and leaving the pub, could potentially change the character of the area.
‘However, it is acknowledged the existing premises has no planning restrictions, while the mixed use of the area is also noted.
‘There are already a number of pubs close by, so extending the existing pub could have a cumulative impact on the number of people on the street at closing time, which could impact the character of the area.
‘Floor plans indicate an additional nine tables, each with four chairs, is proposed.
‘There would be additional seating for 36 patrons.’
