A new ‘glamping’ site in south Armagh is well under construction.
Just five months after Armagh I revealed planning approval had been granted for the site in Mullaghbawn and the development is really starting to take shape.
The specially crafted accommodation will add to the unique mix of accommodation choices in the area.
Sitting in the shadow of the majestic Slieve Gullion, the development consists of four ‘glamping’ pods which have been handcrafted in County Kerry.
Armagh Design & Survey Services has been involved in the exciting project and say they are privilege to have played their party.
The Armagh City-based operation said they were “absolutely delighted” with the progress made to date.
The new scheme has been described as a “significant local investment”.
Renowned local craft exponents Padraig Carragher and Sharon Donnelly operate studios out of a converted mill building at Tullymacreeve Road in Mullaghbawn, offering visitors workshops and masterclasses, in woodturning and art, respectively.
And from the homestead, in conjunction with Matthews Coaches and the Cross Square Hotel, the Carragher-Donnelly residence also hosts cookery demonstrations of traditional Irish cooking and baking with a backdrop of Slieve Gullion.
The couple applied last year for approval to extend the offering at their rural tourism enterprise.
A planning application was submitted for four ‘glamping pods’, each hand-crafted from timber and capable of sleeping two adults.
The proposal included the provision of two shower/toilet enclosures, and the reuse of outbuildings would allow for communal kitchen and laundry facilities, as well as a games room, storage, office and toilets.
Also included is car parking and cycle parking for visitors.
Planning officials gave the go-ahead for the development in October.
The ‘glamping’ pods – described as being “beautifully and aesthetically pleasing” and representing “tasteful and bespoke self-catering accommodation” – should be available in the not-too-distant future.
Photos by Armagh Design & Survey Services.
