Autumn date for start of work on new Omagh hotel

WORK on the redevelopment of the former Provincial Bank in Omagh into a 22-bed boutique hotel is hoped to begin later this year, with a scheduled 18 month completion timeline.

Planning permission was granted just two weeks ago for the multi-million project on High Street, which, it is hoped, will create between 50 and 60 permanent and part-time jobs.

It will be called ‘The Foundry’ because of its location close to the former Henderson’s Iron Foundry in the town.

Those behind the scheme hope that construction on the new hotel will begin in autumn.

The scheme is being spearheaded by Carrickmore native, James McCallan, co-founder and director of Anamore and his business partner, Anthony Marley. They acquired the building six years ago.

“We knew it was special, and had the potential to be turned into something Omagh residents and visitors will enjoy. We are looking forward to realising the development, and delivering something that will allow Omagh to compete on a national scale for international business travelers, tourists and locals,” said Mr McCallan.

His business partner, Anthony Marley, says the project is a big under-taking but worth doing.

“We have a very good understanding of the existing structure, and have already carried out significant inspection works to understand its construction. We are very mindful that it is a well-known local building, and is of significant architectural importance to the town,” he added.

“We are excited by the plans, and we thank the council for working throughout the process and approving this application to allow us to bring life back, to not just this beautiful historic building, but to help drive as much interest and traffic to our town centre as possible, supporting the high street retailers, residents and visitors alike.”

Architect for the scheme is Peter Dolan of ADP Architects in Omagh.