Caledon Arms Hotel could return as restaurant and brewery

A 200-year-old former hotel could be brought back to life as a new restaurant and brewery in the Co Tyrone village of Caledon.

Derry construction group Errigal is leading the major refurbishment project of the listed Caledon Arms building and if a proposal, lodged in recent days is approved it would see glamping pods installed to the rear of the hotel site, with a new children’s play park also developed.

Errigal’s plans involves a new rear entrance for the Main Street building, while residential accommodation for staff is also proposed as part of the development.

Belfast-based Consarc has been appointed to design the project.

Its portfolio of conservation projects includes the Grand Opera House, The Guildhall in Derry, Titanic Hotel and Castle Leslie, just across the border in Co Monaghan.

Built in the early 1820s, the Caledon Arms Hotel was designed by Dublin architect William Murray, who also designed Armagh Courthouse.

The old hotel was last placed on the market around six years ago and the site comprises the main house (former hotel), former outbuildings, which reach two storeys and a single storey infill building.

The 2.5 storey listed main house includes a basement, ground floor and two upper levels.

In a report submitted to Mid Ulster District Council’s planning department, Consarc reveal the Historic Environment Division in Belfast was consulted at an early stage in the project.

Consarc’s report states: “Extensive upgrades and sensitive conservation repairs will be necessary to bring the building up to a useable standard.

“The proposal intends to reuse the building for hospitality use in line with its traditional function as an appropriate use for the building to benefit the local community and the economic prospects of the village with increased tourism.”