Tidy Doffer gets the go ahead from planners
THE green light has been given for one of the area's best
known gastro pubs to be re-built.
An application to restore the former Tidy Doffer site in Ravarnet, which was destroyed in an accidental blaze early 2008 has been approved by Planning Service. While no concrete date has been confirmed for work to begin on the pub, Barry Donaghy from Wen Inns Ltd said the company is planning to restore the site to its former glory.
He commented: The MAR Group of Companies, incorporating Wen Inns Ltd, is delighted to get a positive planning result on the Tidy Doffer site. It is a very important site in our portfolio of licensed premises.
"Our plans are to redevelop the site to fit into our model of running and operating quality 'gastropubs' offering the customers high quality bistro food with 5 star service in a comfortable and relaxed environment. This outlet sits very well with the other premises we are currently operating, including the Portaferry Hotel, The Slip Inn, The Bryansburn Inn, Bangor, Lisbarnett House Bar/Restaurant/Off Sales, Lisbane and the award winning Hillside Bar/Bistro/Restaurant, Hillsborough."
It is thought a spark from an open fire started the blaze In February 2008. It was eventually put out by fire crews using a special foam.
Two customers and about six staff had to be evacuated.
The pub was famous for the looms and other historical artefacts from the linen industry which gave it its unique character.
At the height of the blaze a total of 10 fire appliances attended the scene. Regular pumping appliances and three specialist Fire Appliances including a water tanker, a high rise aerial appliance and the Command Support Unit were in attendance.
Ulster Star
05/02/2010
