Plans for glamping pods a former primary school submitted to Causeway Coast and Glens Council
Plans for seven new glamping pods at the former Bellarena Primary School have been submitted to Causeway Cast and Glens Borough Council.
The recently-submitted planning application seeks to construct seven pods within the grounds of the former school and listed building at 260 Seacoast Road, Limavady, and for an extension to the rear of the old school building to provide space for a spa treatment area.
According to an accompanying Planning Statement the spa will replace an existing art studio use within the rear section of the building, while the historic frontage part of the old school will continue to operate as a café.
“The extension is confined to the rear of the building and relates to the existing modern elements, ensuring that the character and principal elevation of the listed structure remain,” the statement added.
“The school closed in June 2019, after 150+ years as a centre of education for the local community [and] the building is listed on the basis of the attractive stone-built schoolhouse that fronts onto Seacoast Road, which is of cultural and architectural value.
“In 2022 planning permission was granted for a proposed change of use of the primary school to a wellbeing destination incorporating a tearoom, meeting room, arts and craft room, fitness room, and outdoor adventure centre.
“The café element of the proposal is operational. The proposal comprises a comprehensive tourism and wellbeing development within the grounds of the former school.
“This includes the provision of seven glamping pods within the established treed area, the continued use of the listed school building as a café; and the extension and internal adaptation of the building to accommodate a spa.