Operator of Hogan's pub lodges plans to convert former Ballsbridge post office into pub restaurant
Gordon Deegan
The hospitality group that operates Hogan's pub on South Great Georges Street in Dublin has lodged plans for a new pub restaurant at the former Ballsbridge Post Office in Dublin 4.
The group, led by Declan O’Regan, has, through Telfer Ltd, lodged plans with Dublin City Council to change the use of the two-storey former post office on Shelbourne Rd in Dublin 4 to a licensed bar restaurant with retail and gallery space.
The application comes on the back of the group’s revenues increasing last year by €1.3 million last year.
The most recent accounts for Telfer Ltd show that it recorded pre-tax profits of €1.25 million as revenues increased by 11 per cent from €11.32 million to €12.6 million in the 12 months to the end of May 2024.
A planning conservation report drawn up by Crimmins Architects and lodged with the new application states that “the objective of the proposed works is to stop the deterioration of the building by sensitive repair and adaptation and to give it a use that can support its survival both physically and economically”.
The report states that built in 1889, Ballsbridge Post Office is on the Record of Protected Structures held by Dublin City Council for its architectural social quality, which contributes to the character and heritage of the city.
The report adds that in order to maintain and enhance the building’s vibrancy, “a licenced bar restaurant with retail and gallery is deemed an appropriate alternative”.
It states that “the existing signage will remain an important aspect of the proposal. Any original memorabilia relating to 'An Post' will be retained and featured as an opportunity to nod to the original use”.
Crimmins Architects state that “the clients are keen to maintain the character of the space with the fit out. This will have an overall positive impact”.
The conservation report states that “all efforts will be taken to ensure that necessary new work on the historic structures looks appropriate and is in keeping with the fabric, materials, and style of the original work”.
The report states that the proposed works will “have minimal detrimental impact on the character of the protected structure”.
The report states that “the proposal to change the use of the building to a licensed bar restaurant with retail and gallery along with the proposed repairs and removal of late 20th century partitions will have a hugely positive impact”.
In the group’s 2024 accounts, the directors for Telfer state that they are satisfied with the results and the company “enjoyed another profitable year”.
Numbers employed increased from 129 to 133 as staff costs rose from €3.7 million to €4.6 million.
A connected Declan O’Regan pub firm, The Secret Bar Ltd recorded pre-tax profits of €175,746 on revenues of €3.96 million in the 12 months to the end of May last.
