Small Businesses in Dublin, Ireland Against Planned Hostel

DUBLIN, IRELAND (small.news) – A plan for a 273-bed tourist hostel in Dublin has local businesses objecting to the idea, with some concerned over potential on-street drinking.

The Irish Independent reported that the plan is being drawn up by Eamon Waters’ company Balrath Investments. This development plan would put the hostel on Drury Street.

The plan seeks to change the first four levels of the Maryland House, 20-21 William Street South, and 50-51 Drury Street from office space to a tourist hostel.

Changing Use for the Maryland House

According to an investment brochure from Lisney Estate Agents, the Maryland House was built in 1971. When it was built, the ground floors were used by Dawsonridge Retail Limited and the owner of the Jenny Vander boutique.

The floors above were used for the motor insurance company AA, the brochure states.

In February 2022, the Dublin City Council gave Balrath Investments permission to make alterations to the ground floor and basement, changing their use from a shop and carpark to a restaurant, according to the Dublin Inquirer.

Then, in September 2024, Balrath Investments was given permission to create a restaurant and bar, and add two stories to the building. Now, the company wants to change the building’s usage again, but this time to a hostel.

Small Business Owners Opposed to Development

The owners of Jenny Vander, Gail and Aidan Kinsella, wrote a letter claiming they have a 35-year lease over the ground floor and would be “unduly [affected]” by the development.

“We are instructed to vehemently oppose any application for planning permission on the grounds that it will impede our client’s use and enjoyment of the property and as such will have detrimental effects to their livelihood,” the letter read.

Madeline Blaine, who owns The Collective Jewellers, told council members that her and other small business owners already have issues with people drinking on the street.

Blaine explained, “This is an ongoing problem that the council is already well aware of. Allowing yet another unneeded bar is just worsening the existing situation.”

Blaine also said, “A tourist hotel comprising dormitories is definitely low-end… If businesses like mine are going to survive, we should be attracting a higher money bracket to the street, where people can browse and shop in relative calm and ease.”

She believes that this plan could hurt local businesses by discouraging retail pedestrians.

Balrath Investments Tells Council the Development Will ‘Enhance Street Activation’

Despite many concerns from small businesses in the area, Balrath Investments told the council that “the proposed development will enhance street activation during the evenings and at night time whilst generating more job opportunities at a pivotal location.”

The city council has put the application on pause after asking the applicants to address the transport and design concerns.