The battle to save a small bit of Tyrone’s built heritage

PLANS have been put forward to save a ‘rare and historically significant’ building in Tyrone.

The dilapidated house at Glenmacoffer Road between Gortin and Greencastle is believed to date back as far as 1865 and has been granted listed building status. However, the current owners say ‘urgent intervention’ is needed to secure the future of the historic building.

A planning application has been submitted to Fermanagh and Omagh District Council for work on the house, including a modern extension, which would make it habitable.

A supporting statement included as part of the planning application highlights the poor condition of the building.

“The listing of the property on the Heritage at Risk Register confirms its vulnerable status,” it states.

“Without urgent and purposeful intervention, it risks continued decay and eventual loss. This proposal represents the most viable and conservation-minded means of securing the structure’s future, delivering a carefully considered, sustainable reuse strategy.

“The extension enables a long-term maintenance regime through active residential use, enhances architectural value through design quality, and protects the setting and fabric of the building for future generations.”

Records show the first known inhabitant of the house was Arthur McCullagh, before the property passed to James Keenan. By 1895, the records show the house was owned by James McCullagh.

The supporting statement outlines the background to the new planning application.

“Site meetings with Historic Environment Division (HED) officers and the applicant were undertaken as part of the development of this proposal, with formal advice received during the pre-application and Heritage at Risk (HAR) process.

“Follow-up consultation with HED has continued throughout the development of the scheme.

“Although a grant is expected to assist with temporary roof protection, there is a concern that intervention may be too late to prevent escalating damage from water ingress.

“In contrast, the planning application represents a realistic and timely opportunity to deliver a permanent, viable solution to safeguard the building through reoccupation and comprehensive repair.

“It should be noted that a previous approval was granted for an extension; however, this design was significantly smaller and lacked the accommodation necessary for modern living. It also failed to respond appropriately to the form and rhythm of the existing dwelling.

“The current proposal, by contrast, addresses both the spatial requirements and the architectural language of the listed building while enhancing its long-term conservation and use potential.”

The statement submitted as part of the planning application highlights the importance of the proposed work to save the building.

“The proposed extension is an essential intervention. The existing building is now in a deteriorating condition, with slates missing on the roof and visible signs of water ingress.

“Unless appropriately conserved and adapted for ongoing occupation, there is a real risk of further historic fabric loss and the eventual loss of the building’s heritage value. The extension will provide a viable means of reuse, ensuring its maintenance and relevance for future generations.”