PLANS for a new state-of-the-art hotel in Rathmullan are being widely welcomed, with locals hoping it will breathe new life into the seaside village.
A planning application for the project has been submitted by Thomas McCarron, of Clipfine Limited, who aims to create a four-storey, 37-bedroom boutique hotel at Kerr’s Bay Road.
The proposed development will include a restaurant, bar and dining area, along with a car park at the rear of the hotel.
Speaking to the Donegal News, local councillor Pauric McGarvey said the proposed plans have received a positive response and described the development as a much-needed investment for Rathmullan.
“It will bring the heartbeat back into the town while creating business, employment and tourism,” Cllr McGarvey said.
The new hotel would be on the site of the former Pier Hotel.
“The plans themselves are fantastic and I commend the architect on the design.
“It’s modern but still keeping with Rathmullan’s architecture.”
The site for the new development was once home to The Pier Hotel, a historic establishment that served the local community for over a century.
A popular destination for tourists and locals alike, the hotel’s location on the pier was a major selling point, offering guests stunning views of Lough Swilly.
The hotel was owned by Jim Deeney, the grandson of the original founder.
However, after he retired in the early 2000s and the hotel was sold to new owners, it tragically burned down shortly afterwards.
“The Pier Hotel was the heart of Rathmullan,” Cllr McGarvey, pictured left, continued.
“It was owned by Jim Deeney for 20 years before being sold in the early 2000s, and was burned shortly after that.
“I remember the shock in Rathmullan the night it was burned.
“Many people have fond memories of the hotel, including weddings, christenings, family events and sea angling dinner dances, to name a few.
“This proposed development now offers a fantastic opportunity for its return.”
Over the years, many projects such as The Pier Hotel were delayed due to insufficient infrastructure upgrades in Rathmullan and the surrounding areas.
However, with a major investment in the new sewage treatment plant nearing completion, these plans can now move forward.
Donegal County Council will make its decision on February 19, 2026.
