The nascent tourism business of Justin Keatinge continues to expand, with the former Version 1 chief executive now looking to convert a former office building on Lower Leeson Street into a six-suite short-stay tourist building. Last week Keatinge submitted a planning application with Dublin City Council for 22 Lower Leeson Street, through his Carnivan Bay Hospitality vehicle. However, Dublin City Council has since refused permission, on the grounds that tourist accommodation at that location is not listed as “permissible”. Plans would see the office converted to nine serviced short-stay tourist accommodation, plus a reception, guest services and coffee dock. ‘Socially damaging’One objection also noted that it is “socially damaging” to take long-term housing stock out of the market and replace it with short-term accommodation.

Source: The Irish Times May 22, 2018 04:07 UTC