Commercial buildings in Galway City and changes over the years

AwaitYourReply

According to a report published last week in the online edition of the Irish Independent, it seems that Barnacles Hostel (and associated businesses) has been part of a sale which also involves Barnacles Hostel premises in Dublin. The hostel located on Quay Street next door to Number 10 convenience shop is located right opposite the popular Quay's Bar. Another hostel operator in Galway City which operates under the brand, Snoozles Hostel on Forster Street (near New Coach Station) is to add the former Barnacles Hostel on Quay Street to it's hostel accommodation portfolio.

https://www.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/barnacles-dublin-and-galway-hostels-sold-for-over-12m-37552350.html

Earlier this year another hostel called "Nimmo's Hostel" located in the West End on 1 Upper Dominic Street closed down suddenly. One would wonder if Nimmo's will ever re-open as a hostel in the future or; if the building will be sold altogether? Nimmo's was previously known as Archview Hostel in the '90's and was probably the cheapest for hostel accommodation in the city however; the hostel premises has required major investment for quite some time and would probably most suit a buyer that is already operating in the sector. Galway can never have enough hostel accommodation especially in the "budget/economy segment" of the market as it can be rather expensive to stay at some of the other upmarket hostels such as BUNK or Kinlay in Galway City on weekends not to mention the busy Summer festivals period between June-September. Nimmo's entry on Google's search engine suggests it is "permanently closed" although; a recent walk past it still showed Nimmo's Hostel painted on the wall despite having been closed since before last Summer! It will be interesting to see if the premises has a future as a hostel. I recall back in the late 1990's "The Great Western House" close to Ceannt Railway Station had once operated as a large tourist hostel in the city.

Another building in Galway's Shop Street has been all boarded up for over 20 years and I think it was once occupied by Taaffe's. Many people set up stalls or busking pitches right in front of the now "boarded-up" premises and I've even witnessed the facade being painted when Galway was pitching to be the host city for the European Capital of Culture in 2020. Just seems such a waste in a prime spot thinking back during the so called "Celtic Tiger" boom trading period. I wonder what the story is with the building just sitting there all this time in a busy retail shopping sector of Galway City Centre? Below links show photos of the premises (i) Appearance of the exterior boarded-up facade in recent years and (ii) the shop front facade as it operated in it's heyday!

Former TAAFFE's Shop boarded-up in recent years:
https://connachttribune.ie/one-in-seven-commercial-premises-empty-in-galway-011/

Former TAAFFE's Shop during it's heyday!
https://www.facebook.com/loughcorribireland/photos/pcb.1247489122017246/1247488912017267/?type=3&theater

Fitz*

The Taafes 'building' is just a wall, it's an empty hole behind that wall.

It's perfect location for a multistory apartment building with parking, possibly with commerical units underneath like what Edward Square is/was.

witnessrenegade

Taafes would make a great H&M or Zara, I think Zara was meant to move in their years ago but it fell through?

flazio

Not according to Google maps, there is a building and open space behind it. I spot dense greenery behind Brown Thomas as well.

Subcomandante Marcos

FitzShane wrote: »

The Taafes 'building' is just a wall, it's an empty hole behind that wall.

The building itself is still standing, it's just in a condition that would make restoring it impractical and would probably be knocked.
Thre's a large yard to the rear though.

FitzShane wrote: »

It's perfect location for a multistory apartment building with parking, possibly with commerical units underneath like what Edward Square is/was.

There's no road access to the building from any side.

Mrs OBumble

FitzShane wrote: »

It's perfect location for a multistory apartment building with parking, possibly with commerical units underneath like what Edward Square is/was.

The front onto Shop St should be commercial on all levels: there's way too much street noise for it to be viable as residential. Also there's only one narrow vehicle access, not sure if parking would be viable.

zell12

Subcomandante Marcos wrote: »

There's no road access to the building from any side.

bicycle parking, obliviously

Fitz*

Subcomandante Marcos wrote: »

The building itself is still standing, it's just in a condition that would make restoring it impractical and would probably be knocked.
Thre's a large yard to the rear though.


There's no road access to the building from any side.

I used to live in Edward Square up until last month (which also has no road access onto it) and could see right in behind the wall. It's an empty hole!! It's full of rubbish and traffic cones.

No reason why a doorway path into a building can be built there, like the 2 on either side of Edward Square. It's actually possible to extend the current Edward Square one into the back of Taafse's building I would imagine also.


EDIT: Maybe what I could see is the yard, if it is, then it's a pretty large yard and adding that onto the building would make a large area very capable of holding residential units.

Mrs OBumble wrote: »

The front onto Shop St should be commercial on all levels: there's way too much street noise for it to be viable as residential. Also there's only one narrow vehicle access, not sure if parking would be viable.

Again, there is no parking in Edward Square blocks, but they fill the apartments. Students wouldn't care about noise levels.

Subcomandante Marcos

FitzShane wrote: »

I used to live in Edward Square up until last month (which also has no road access onto it) and could see right in behind the wall. It's an empty hole!! It's full of rubbish and traffic cones.

No reason why a doorway path into a building can be built there, like the 2 on either side of Edward Square. It's actually possible to extend the current Edward Square one into the back of Taafse's building I would imagine also.


EDIT: Maybe what I could see is the yard, if it is, then it's a pretty large yard and adding that onto the building would make a large area very capable of holding residential units.



Again, there is no parking in Edward Square blocks, but they fill the apartments. Students wouldn't care about noise levels.

You could see the back of the building and the large yard behing it and H Samuels, have a look at satalite view on google maps, the building is intact.

youngrun

AwaitYourReply wrote: »

According to a report published last week in the online edition of the Irish Independent, it seems that Barnacles Hostel (and associated businesses) has been part of a sale which also involves Barnacles Hostel premises in Dublin. The hostel located on Quay Street next door to Number 10 convenience shop is located right opposite the popular Quay's Bar. Another hostel operator in Galway City which operates under the brand, Snoozles Hostel on Forster Street (near New Coach Station) is to add the former Barnacles Hostel on Quay Street to it's hostel accommodation portfolio.

https://www.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/barnacles-dublin-and-galway-hostels-sold-for-over-12m-37552350.html

Earlier this year another hostel called "Nimmo's Hostel" located in the West End on 1 Upper Dominic Street closed down suddenly. One would wonder if Nimmo's will ever re-open as a hostel in the future or; if the building will be sold altogether? Nimmo's was previously known as Archview Hostel in the '90's and was probably the cheapest for hostel accommodation in the city however; the hostel premises has required major investment for quite some time and would probably most suit a buyer that is already operating in the sector. Galway can never have enough hostel accommodation especially in the "budget/economy segment" of the market as it can be rather expensive to stay at some of the other upmarket hostels such as BUNK or Kinlay in Galway City on weekends not to mention the busy Summer festivals period between June-September. Nimmo's entry on Google's search engine suggests it is "permanently closed" although; a recent walk past it still showed Nimmo's Hostel painted on the wall despite having been closed since before last Summer! It will be interesting to see if the premises has a future as a hostel. I recall back in the late 1990's "The Great Western House" close to Ceannt Railway Station had once operated as a large tourist hostel in the city.

Another building in Galway's Shop Street has been all boarded up for over 20 years and I think it was once occupied by Taaffe's. Many people set up stalls or busking pitches right in front of the now "boarded-up" premises and I've even witnessed the facade being painted when Galway was pitching to be the host city for the European Capital of Culture in 2020. Just seems such a waste in a prime spot thinking back during the so called "Celtic Tiger" boom trading period. I wonder what the story is with the building just sitting there all this time in a busy retail shopping sector of Galway City Centre? Below links show photos of the premises (i) Appearance of the exterior boarded-up facade in recent years and (ii) the shop front facade as it operated in it's heyday!

Former TAAFFE's Shop boarded-up in recent years:
https://connachttribune.ie/one-in-seven-commercial-premises-empty-in-galway-011/

Former TAAFFE's Shop during it's heyday!
https://www.facebook.com/loughcorribireland/photos/pcb.1247489122017246/1247488912017267/?type=3&theater

Yes, Burkeway bought the Barnacles, seems to be doing well again, building houses too fair play the only guys doing it in town it seems

Nimmos Hostel ripe for the Roisin Dubh to extend into one would think. Stayed there once or twice a serious dive you would want to be out of it to sleep!

Quite a lot of hostels around now Kinlay, Snoozles *2, Sleepzone, the ones in Salthill. But probably a good use of secondary streets eg Dominick Street, parts of Docks etc. VAT going up makes it a bit less viable

xckjoo

Taaffes is a protected structure so they can't knock anything. All of the buildings are on Shop Street as far as I know. Eagle eyes will notice that new shops are generally within an inner shell of the outer structure.

I have a feeling Gerry Barrett bought it previously so it could be in NAMA now. There used to be tennis courts out the back so that would explain the yard/empty space.

Mrs OBumble

Subcomandante Marcos wrote: »

There's no road access to the building from any side.

Yes there is, from a laneway down Abbeygate St.



Even for students the street noise on Shop St is too much. They definitely would care about the 6am street sweepers and 8-9am keg deliveries. Some would be freaked by the 4am "I'll kill you" screamers too.

westgolf

Mrs OBumble wrote: »

Yes there is, from a laneway down Abbeygate St. =quote]

If you mean the lane, on the left hand side going down, with the big double height gates I thought that was the access to the rear of the townhouses and apartment's that the city council developed on the corner of Whitehall and lower abbeygate street.?

xckjoo

Mrs OBumble wrote: »

Yes there is, from a laneway down Abbeygate St.



Even for students the street noise on Shop St is too much. They definitely would care about the 6am street sweepers and 8-9am keg deliveries. Some would be freaked by the 4am "I'll kill you" screamers too.

Beside Venice? Looks blocked from the satellite view. There's a building there anyway and it doesn't look like you can pass either side of it.
Side-note: Anyone remember when you could walk through the Arch Mews laneway (between the Four Corners and Vision Express) and it came out on Abbeygate Street? I seem to remember another gate near what's now the Oxfam Shop, but there's no obvious sign of it now.

AwaitYourReply

youngrun wrote: »

Yes, Burkeway bought the Barnacles, seems to be doing well again, building houses too fair play the only guys doing it in town it seems

Nimmos Hostel ripe for the Roisin Dubh to extend into one would think. Stayed there once or twice a serious dive you would want to be out of it to sleep!

Quite a lot of hostels around now Kinlay, Snoozles *2, Sleepzone, the ones in Salthill. But probably a good use of secondary streets eg Dominick Street, parts of Docks etc. VAT going up makes it a bit less viable

I understand that there is a former Butcher's shop (this particular unit has been boarded up for some time now) which would have had it's front window and main entrance directly facing on to Upper Dominick Street. Owner of Nimmo's hostel (previously called Archview Hostel) building also owned the vacant butcher premises which should offer an attractive proposition for any commercial buyer if it was all placed on the market.

Not sure if the pub/nightclub trade is in expansion mode in Galway these days in comparison to the boom years unless the owners of establishments like the Roisín Dubh for instance decided to purchase the premises with a view to renovating and operating the former Nimmos/former Butcher's as a new hostel & WIFI cafe in Galway's West End as this part of town would give patrons an alternative choice of location. As Nimmo's had got run down it probably did not attract a certain cohort of guest in the past but the location spot has still got huge potential if developed and managed properly. Galway already has a fairly newly opened luxury/boutique type "Nest" hostel out closer to Salthill so; a budget economy type hostel would probably gain more traction as many of the hostels have been raising their price-points in recent years anyway like BUNK, Kinlay House, the Savoy, Sleepzone, Galway City Hostel etc; Budget/Economy hostel & WIFI Cafe in a brightly lit, clean, secure, safe, funky facility is probably the way to go.

Mrs OBumble

westgolf wrote: »

If you mean the lane, on the left hand side going down, with the big double height gates I thought that was the access to the rear of the townhouses and apartment's that the city council developed on the corner of Whitehall and lower abbeygate street.?

It's that too. But not exclusively, or even mainly.

And yes its beside Venice. Not blocked, it's part of the evacuation route / firefighting access for the Shopping Centre - that why the security guards from the centre unlock the gate eeach day.

Its not a good access for a carparking building though, duecto the small street size. 😀 Maybe the cyclists could argue for a bulk bicycle parking facility there, though.

xckjoo

Mrs OBumble wrote: »

It's that too. But not exclusively, or even mainly.

And yes its beside Venice. Not blocked, it's part of the evacuation route / firefighting access for the Shopping Centre - that why the security guards from the centre unlock the gate eeach day.

Its not a good access for a carparking building though, duecto the small street size. �� Maybe the cyclists could argue for a bulk bicycle parking facility there, though.

You sure it's clear? Looks like there's a building between the yard behind Venice/Whitehall and the yard at the back of Taaffes. I'm only going off the satellite image though.

Redo91

Heard the same about Zara going into Taffes. Apparently Zara and H&M are owned by the same company and one won’t locate in a new city without the other.

Any idea when construction will start on the new hotel where Shannon Laundry used to be? There has been hoardings up for a while with “The Dean” written on them.

xckjoo

Redo91 wrote: »

Heard the same about Zara going into Taffes. Apparently Zara and H&M are owned by the same company and one won’t locate in a new city without the other.

Any idea when construction will start on the new hotel where Shannon Laundry used to be? There has been hoardings up for a while with “The Dean” written on them.

Once they sort the rat and asbestos problems :pac:

AwaitYourReply

xckjoo wrote: »

You sure it's clear? Looks like there's a building between the yard behind Venice/Whitehall and the yard at the back of Taaffes. I'm only going off the satellite image though.

Oh, sorry if I opened up a hornet's nest in relation to the former TAAFFES Shop that has been boarded up for all those years. I hope this building in such a prime retail site will enjoy a more prominent future at some point in the coming years.

I would also like to see other commercial premises like the former Nimmo's Hostel and old butcher's (underneath the same hostel premises) being brought back to life again as closed or inactive premises often results in buildings deteriorating and even becoming dangerous and can negatively impact on all neighbouring business interests, local citizens, visiting tourists etc;

xckjoo

AwaitYourReply wrote: »

Oh, sorry if I opened up a hornet's nest in relation to the former TAAFFES Shop that has been boarded up for all those years. I hope this building in such a prime retail site will enjoy a more prominent future at some point in the coming years.

I would also like to see other commercial premises like the former Nimmo's Hostel and old butcher's (underneath the same hostel premises) being brought back to life again as closed or inactive premises often results in buildings deteriorating and even becoming dangerous and can negatively impact on all neighbouring business interests, local citizens, visiting tourists etc;

Nah. Don't think you've opened anything. Taaffes and it's deceased owner are a local institution that's worth looking into. It was still open around the turn of the millennium but most people wouldn't be going in there. When Una Taaffe left it closed and nothing has happened with it since. It was probably a victim of its own potential; a valuable commercial location but in need of investment. As I said earlier, Gerry Barrett tried to do something with it during the boom, but nothing came of it. I'm sure it needs more work now after being vacant for so long.

That butchers is a fascinating place too. For years you'd think it was closed, only to randomly see the door open and sausage links in the window. I'd love to know more about it.

There's also Ideal Drapery beside it. That's been empty as long as I can remember. Occasionally you hear rumors about something happening with it but so far nothing. I think the Roisin might use it for storage or something.

AwaitYourReply

xckjoo wrote: »

Nah. Don't think you've opened anything. Taaffes and it's deceased owner are a local institution that's worth looking into. It was still open around the turn of the millennium but most people wouldn't be going in there. When Una Taaffe left it closed and nothing has happened with it since. It was probably a victim of its own potential; a valuable commercial location but in need of investment. As I said earlier, Gerry Barrett tried to do something with it during the boom, but nothing came of it. I'm sure it needs more work now after being vacant for so long.

That butchers is a fascinating place too. For years you'd think it was closed, only to randomly see the door open and sausage links in the window. I'd love to know more about it.

There's also Ideal Drapery beside it. That's been empty as long as I can remember. Occasionally you hear rumors about something happening with it but so far nothing. I think the Roisin might use it for storage or something.

I've been a visitor to the city of Galway since 1996 and I cannot say that I can ever remember Taaffes shop or any retail outlet operating from that premises. It was unusual to see any retail store completely boarded up on that street which had a very high footfall. Not long afterwards probably around 1997 this and other adjoining streets would be pedestrianised although the cobble stone surfaces have not stood the test of time with pooling of water and loose cobble stones which are a health & safety hazard if wearing certain types of footwear.

About 15-20yrs ago it was still possible to see the imprint of the TAAFFE lettering over entrance to Taaffes shop. Until recently, I assumed in error that it might have been a previous location for Taaffes Bar as I was not familiar with the surname but I was clearly wrong on that front.

The former Nimmos Hostel which was previously called Archview Hostel was owned by the same business interest. Apparently, the last owner of the property used run the butcher's at one point until it closed some years previously. I gather it was passed on to the next generation but they may not have had any interest in developing it themselves. The hostel building did have some improvement works carried out in recent years as the kitchen/lounge/bathrooms/some dorms/beds were updated but it still needed more by way of major investment and additional staff. The hallway, corridors and stairwells left a bad first impression and it needed things like TV Room, Bookcase, Board games, Public Computer(s) with free internet access, free breakfast etc; The main hostel entrance was almost hidden away in a dark corner and it clearly needed improved security controls. All of the windows needed to be replaced with triple glazing so that any hostel guests who needed to sleep at night were not kept awake until 03:00am by street revellers passing or the outdoor smoking facilities belonging to the Roisín Dubh located to the rear of the building. Nimmo's Hostel could tick a lot of boxes but needed further investment in guest amenities/facilities & additional staff to keep things running smoothly as it's too much for 1 or 2 individuals. If it was brought right up to scratch then it should flourish if the price-point was set at budget/economy and lots of marketing on all the social media, local tourist business attractions and the ability of booking direct via website.

Perhaps the owners of Nimmos Hostel should seek help of Francis & John Brennan from RTÉ TV series "At Your Service" as they did excellent work in this area in past with the "Old Monastery Hostel" in Letterfrack, Co. Galway, Portree House in Waterford City, BUNK Boutique hostel Galway and other establishments through their popular tv series.

Redo91

xckjoo wrote: »

Redo91 wrote: »

Heard the same about Zara going into Taffes. Apparently Zara and H&M are owned by the same company and one won’t locate in a new city without the other.

Any idea when construction will start on the new hotel where Shannon Laundry used to be? There has been hoardings up for a while with “The Dean” written on them.

Once they sort the rat and asbestos problems :pac:

That would explain the delay! :P

Fitz*

Actually, I thought H&M & Zara were meant to be going into Knocknacarra when Phase 2 is completed?

westgolf

FitzShane wrote: »

Actually, I thought H&M & Zara were meant to be going into Knocknacarra when Phase 2 is completed?

These two seem to be touted for every new development or refurbishment project. Not too long ago they were to be the tenants of the new units created by the new entrance to the Eyre square centre on the skeff side.

Fitz*

westgolf wrote: »

These two seem to be touted for every new development or refurbishment project. Not too long ago they were to be the tenants of the new units created by the new entrance to the Eyre square centre on the skeff side.

to be honest, I was going from this.

https://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?p=106834283#post106834283

https://brochures.bannon.ie/files/galway-gateway-shopping-park.pdf

Mrs OBumble

xckjoo wrote: »

You sure it's clear? Looks like there's a building between the yard behind Venice/Whitehall and the yard at the back of Taaffes. I'm only going off the satellite image though.

There is but I'm pretty sure its modern and dispensible.


The Taffes shop site was going to be developed during the boom - but then there were safety guidelines introduced about building within a certain distance of oil/bitumen (or whatever they were) tankers, after a disaster in the UK. The tankers have since been moved, so the site can be developed now.

xckjoo

AwaitYourReply wrote: »

I've been a visitor to the city of Galway since 1996 and I cannot say that I can ever remember Taaffes shop or any retail outlet operating from that premises. It was unusual to see any retail store completely boarded up on that street which had a very high footfall. Not long afterwards probably around 1997 this and other adjoining streets would be pedestrianised although the cobble stone surfaces have not stood the test of time with pooling of water and loose cobble stones which are a health & safety hazard if wearing certain types of footwear.

About 15-20yrs ago it was still possible to see the imprint of the TAAFFE lettering over entrance to Taaffes shop. Until recently, I assumed in error that it might have been a previous location for Taaffes Bar as I was not familiar with the surname but I was clearly wrong on that front.

The former Nimmos Hostel which was previously called Archview Hostel was owned by the same business interest. Apparently, the last owner of the property used run the butcher's at one point until it closed some years previously. I gather it was passed on to the next generation but they may not have had any interest in developing it themselves. The hostel building did have some improvement works carried out in recent years as the kitchen/lounge/bathrooms/some dorms/beds were updated but it still needed more by way of major investment and additional staff. The hallway, corridors and stairwells left a bad first impression and it needed things like TV Room, Bookcase, Board games, Public Computer(s) with free internet access, free breakfast etc; The main hostel entrance was almost hidden away in a dark corner and it clearly needed improved security controls. All of the windows needed to be replaced with triple glazing so that any hostel guests who needed to sleep at night were not kept awake until 03:00am by street revellers passing or the outdoor smoking facilities belonging to the Roisín Dubh located to the rear of the building. Nimmo's Hostel could tick a lot of boxes but needed further investment in guest amenities/facilities & additional staff to keep things running smoothly as it's too much for 1 or 2 individuals. If it was brought right up to scratch then it should flourish if the price-point was set at budget/economy and lots of marketing on all the social media, local tourist business attractions and the ability of booking direct via website.

Perhaps the owners of Nimmos Hostel should seek help of Francis & John Brennan from RTÉ TV series "At Your Service" as they did excellent work in this area in past with the "Old Monastery Hostel" in Letterfrack, Co. Galway, Portree House in Waterford City, BUNK Boutique hostel Galway and other establishments through their popular tv series.

I'd say Taaffes was still technically open in 1996. If that's before pedestrianization then it definitely was. It had irregular opening hours to say the least . From my understanding, the Taaffes were akin to local gentry at one stage. I think the family was down to Una by the time I was born though. The story goes that she was a renowned beauty in her youth but lost her husband/boyfriend/fiance and never recovered mentally/emotionally. She was well known around town but not always for the best reasons. She had a big love of dogs and a no love for cleanliness. If the door of Taaffes was open you held your breath and walked quickly. Found a thread here on boards related to her death. I haven't actually read it but should have some more info if you're interested.

That's interesting about the hostel. I've always been curious as to who owned it and what the story with it was. I wonder was it always owned by the butchers. Would somewhat explain why the butchers would randomly open some days. There used to be quite a few butchers in that area. I can think of 3 along the Domnick Street/Henry Street line.

Redo91 wrote: »

That would explain the delay! :P

Ha! The asbestos could be rumors but it wouldn't be too surprising either. It was bought by the Comer brothers a few years ago and they seem to be sitting on all their properties until the price is right. Hopefully something will happen there and with the Corrib Great Southern soon. Both will displace a lot of rodents though :pac:

xckjoo

westgolf wrote: »

These two seem to be touted for every new development or refurbishment project. Not too long ago they were to be the tenants of the new units created by the new entrance to the Eyre square centre on the skeff side.

Ya. It used to be Burger King but then they ruined it by opening up somewhere

AwaitYourReply

xckjoo wrote: »

I'd say Taaffes was still technically open in 1996. If that's before pedestrianization then it definitely was. It had irregular opening hours to say the least . From my understanding, the Taaffes were akin to local gentry at one stage. I think the family was down to Una by the time I was born though. The story goes that she was a renowned beauty in her youth but lost her husband/boyfriend/fiance and never recovered mentally/emotionally. She was well known around town but not always for the best reasons. She had a big love of dogs and a no love for cleanliness. If the door of Taaffes was open you held your breath and walked quickly. Found a thread here on boards related to her death. I haven't actually read it but should have some more info if you're interested.

That's interesting about the hostel. I've always been curious as to who owned it and what the story with it was. I wonder was it always owned by the butchers. Would somewhat explain why the butchers would randomly open some days. There used to be quite a few butchers in that area. I can think of 3 along the Domnick Street/Henry Street line.




Ha! The asbestos could be rumors but it wouldn't be too surprising either. It was bought by the Comer brothers a few years ago and they seem to be sitting on all their properties until the price is right. Hopefully something will happen there and with the Corrib Great Southern soon. Both will displace a lot of rodents though :pac:

I do recall seeing the glass window surround of the former butcher shop on Upper Dominick Street right underneath what was Nimmo's Hostel but it would have been during the hours of darkness. Many old style butcher shops did not have the added lines found in today's stores like deli, fruit+veg etc; At the end of a day's trading, you often found a "deserted-looking" interior once all of the produce was sold and/or removed from counter displays as the shop prepared to close for the evening and stock was returned to storage. I'm not sure if that particular butcher's ever sold other produce as I never set foot in the shop as I never came from the Galway area myself. I was just surprised when someone mentioned that the owner of the butcher's apparently also owned the Nimmo's Hostel premises overhead and the butcher's had been idle while the hostel needed a major refurbishment to bring it up to modern spec. as hostel guests would have much higher expectations these days based on standards implemented at other hostels not just in Galway City but in other centres too.

On busy weekends and during long Summer festivals period, you can never have enough options especially in the budget/economy accommodation sector. I think hostels are great but some of them have increased their rates too much and do not always offer sufficient value when you think of how many people can potentially pay to occupy a bunk bed in a single dormitory bedroom which may not be a large room for the number of persons. Some of the hostels can justify charging optimum rates based on supply & demand while others cannot as not all have same standard of facilities/amenities/services etc;

A place like Galway is still a popular holiday & short breaks destinations for citizens living in Ireland and abroad although; it needs to be affordable as otherwise; a certain cohort of visitor will just travel & stay in other locations where accommodation is just as comfortable but less expensive, where food+drink is generally cheaper, plenty of cultural attractions that also cater for those on relatively modest incomes. One hears this sentiment all the time ever since airlines like Ryanair offer cheap air fares to lower cost of living destinations like Spain, Portugal, Czech Republic etc;

All towns & cities in a proper functioning market need a sufficient range of options to cater for a mix due to differing income brackets - there is a market for luxury, upscale, mid-scale and budget/economy scale in everything.

Oh I forgot about the eyesore that would become of the former Corrib Great Southern Hotel outside the city. I think my parents may have taken a Golden Oldies stay a few years before it closed down. I gather it had closed even before the economic crash happened in 2008? Awful to see how the property was allowed to deteriorate in that way for so long.

Anyone remember the Amusement Arcade that once operated over Supermac's Restaurant in Eyre Square during the late '90' and the convenience shop near entrance to Skeffington Arms Hotel? In better times I recall a much busier King's Head, a much busier GBC Restaurant, Cuba's, Lynch's Restaurant over Zhivago's, HMV record store, Redlight Records, Golden Discs, Roches Stores, SuperValu supermarkets in two city centre shopping centres, Townhouse Bar, Eddie Rocket's/Rockin Joe's, News at Ten newsagents, Kenny's Book Shop/Art Gallery and so on... To be fair, it's not all down to Galway as some stores either closed down their branch network or were taken over by another operator like Debenhams took over from Roches Stores for instance but you can still see that there is constant change.

Hopefully cities like Galway will bounce back as I can see it has suffered like most places across Ireland since the economy crashed 10 years ago but business is not booming and people do not have the same disposable income despite the record numbers back in employment. BREXIT uncertainty which also effects the Irish economy does not exactly help with investment decisions being parked and it may not be sorted by 29th March if "no deal" scenario or an extended transition period comes into the mix. That said, the fact that Snoozles hostel is expanding it's own hostel bedroom stock by acquiring Barnacles Hostel on Quay Street suggests that there are some grounds for optimism in the whole hostel sector in the Galway City region so; maybe an investor would be willing to take a punt by acquiring a former long established hostel premises like Nimmo's/Archview Hostel on Upper Dominick Street in order to gain a foothold presence in the West End of Galway City should the building premises ever be placed on the open market? Interesting times ahead!

youngrun

AwaitYourReply wrote: »

I do recall seeing the glass window surround of the former butcher shop on Upper Dominick Street right underneath what was Nimmo's Hostel but it would have been during the hours of darkness. Many old style butcher shops did not have the added lines found in today's stores like deli, fruit+veg etc; At the end of a day's trading, you often found a "deserted-looking" interior once all of the produce was sold and/or removed from counter displays as the shop prepared to close for the evening and stock was returned to storage. I'm not sure if that particular butcher's ever sold other produce as I never set foot in the shop as I never came from the Galway area myself. I was just surprised when someone mentioned that the owner of the butcher's apparently also owned the Nimmo's Hostel premises overhead and the butcher's had been idle while the hostel needed a major refurbishment to bring it up to modern spec. as hostel guests would have much higher expectations these days based on standards implemented at other hostels not just in Galway City but in other centres too.

On busy weekends and during long Summer festivals period, you can never have enough options especially in the budget/economy accommodation sector. I think hostels are great but some of them have increased their rates too much and do not always offer sufficient value when you think of how many people can potentially pay to occupy a bunk bed in a single dormitory bedroom which may not be a large room for the number of persons. Some of the hostels can justify charging optimum rates based on supply & demand while others cannot as not all have same standard of facilities/amenities/services etc;

A place like Galway is still a popular holiday & short breaks destinations for citizens living in Ireland and abroad although; it needs to be affordable as otherwise; a certain cohort of visitor will just travel & stay in other locations where accommodation is just as comfortable but less expensive, where food+drink is generally cheaper, plenty of cultural attractions that also cater for those on relatively modest incomes. One hears this sentiment all the time ever since airlines like Ryanair offer cheap air fares to lower cost of living destinations like Spain, Portugal, Czech Republic etc;

All towns & cities in a proper functioning market need a sufficient range of options to cater for a mix due to differing income brackets - there is a market for luxury, upscale, mid-scale and budget/economy scale in everything.

Oh I forgot about the eyesore that would become of the former Corrib Great Southern Hotel outside the city. I think my parents may have taken a Golden Oldies stay a few years before it closed down. I gather it had closed even before the economic crash happened in 2008? Awful to see how the property was allowed to deteriorate in that way for so long.

Anyone remember the Amusement Arcade that once operated over Supermac's Restaurant in Eyre Square during the late '90' and the convenience shop near entrance to Skeffington Arms Hotel? In better times I recall a much busier King's Head, a much busier GBC Restaurant, Cuba's, Lynch's Restaurant over Zhivago's, HMV record store, Redlight Records, Golden Discs, Roches Stores, SuperValu supermarkets in two city centre shopping centres, Townhouse Bar, Eddie Rocket's/Rockin Joe's, News at Ten newsagents, Kenny's Book Shop/Art Gallery and so on... To be fair, it's not all down to Galway as some stores either closed down their branch network or were taken over by another operator like Debenhams took over from Roches Stores for instance but you can still see that there is constant change.

Hopefully cities like Galway will bounce back as I can see it has suffered like most places across Ireland since the economy crashed 10 years ago but business is not booming and people do not have the same disposable income despite the record numbers back in employment. BREXIT uncertainty which also effects the Irish economy does not exactly help with investment decisions being parked and it may not be sorted by 29th March if "no deal" scenario or an extended transition period comes into the mix. That said, the fact that Snoozles hostel is expanding it's own hostel bedroom stock by acquiring Barnacles Hostel on Quay Street suggests that there are some grounds for optimism in the whole hostel sector in the Galway City region so; maybe an investor would be willing to take a punt by acquiring a former long established hostel premises like Nimmo's/Archview Hostel on Upper Dominick Street in order to gain a foothold presence in the West End of Galway City should the building premises ever be placed on the open market? Interesting times ahead!

You write very well, and have plenty of commercial nous, maybe you should invest in such tourist accommodation ventures!

Nimmos Hostel is one alright that would lend itself to a major upgrade and do well, perhaps with a coffee shop on ground floor if room. Dominick Street has loads of potential and some plans are afoot eg Carrolls have a 40+ bed hotel planned - will it happen? Porters have a huge landbank at rear of their property, Silkes Cash and Carry is a massive premises that could work as indoor markets or more likely will be a student block.

AwaitYourReply

youngrun wrote: »

You write very well, and have plenty of commercial nous, maybe you should invest in such tourist accommodation ventures!

Nimmos Hostel is one alright that would lend itself to a major upgrade and do well, perhaps with a coffee shop on ground floor if room. Dominick Street has loads of potential and some plans are afoot eg Carrolls have a 40+ bed hotel planned - will it happen? Porters have a huge landbank at rear of their property, Silkes Cash and Carry is a massive premises that could work as indoor markets or more likely will be a student block.

Thank you for your positive feedback. If I was based in Galway and if I had significant spare funds available it would be worth consideration. However; a chain of events since '09 has meant that I am not in any financial position to invest in such a project much as I would like. I reckon if the former Nimmos Hostel and former butcher's unit underneath were put up for sale, it may attract major interest from domestic and/or overseas investors. This location is unique for a hostel & coffee shop business as there are no other hostels in Galway City's West End to my knowledge. Close to popular venues like Monroe's and Roisín Dubh's should not make it unsuitable as this can be a plus provided the building has new triple-glazed windows installed throughout as they would be required given that the existing windows fittings are no longer fit for purpose anyway. I remember some years ago, the coffee shop Java's on Upper Abbeygate Street used remain open until about 04:00am some nights and customers had the option of playing board games which gave an alternative to the pub if someone was a night owl but did not necessarily want to be drinking alcohol every time they were out in town? Perhaps a coffee bar with food with late opening hours might work if it is managed differently but it would require some "thinking outside the box".

Nimmo's Hostel premises has been in a rundown state for about 30+ years despite some refurbishment works carried out in recent years. If another programme of improvements was put in place on a phased basis by a new owner/management company it could be brought back up to a satisfactory standard and would also lift the morale of employees. Perhaps a budget/economy model for dormitory guests and have other revenue raising measures like higher tier charges for private room accommodation, coffee/juice/ice cream novelty bar on ground floor in part of old butcher outlet, vending machines with drinks/confectionery in hostel, hostel act as tour ticketing agent, laundry charges, secure storage for valuables for nominal fee, towel hire, bicycle hire agent etc; ticket agent for Monroe's & Roisín Dubh special acts etc;

Francis & John Brennan off the RTÉ broadcast series "At Your Service" would probably have similar suggestions/recommendations based on what they proposed for other hostels needing help in Ireland.

http://www.nimmoshostel.com

Gremlinertia

youngrun wrote: »

You write very well, and have plenty of commercial nous, maybe you should invest in such tourist accommodation ventures!

Nimmos Hostel is one alright that would lend itself to a major upgrade and do well, perhaps with a coffee shop on ground floor if room. Dominick Street has loads of potential and some plans are afoot eg Carrolls have a 40+ bed hotel planned - will it happen? Porters have a huge landbank at rear of their property, Silkes Cash and Carry is a massive premises that could work as indoor markets or more likely will be a student block.

So far I've been familiar with pretty much all places but where is Porters?

AwaitYourReply

Gremlinertia wrote: »

So far I've been familiar with pretty much all places but where is Porters?

Unfortunately, I am not sure myself where "Porters" is located so; hopefully "youngrun" will view this post and be able clarify it for all concerned

westgolf

AwaitYourReply wrote: »

Unfortunately, I am not sure myself where "Porters" is located so; hopefully "youngrun" will view this post and be able clarify it for all concerned

Porters was formerly a distribution centre for a news paper contract. Its half way up Dominick on the right as you look from Monroe's towards the cathedral. There is a small dress hire shop in the front unit but the warehouse area at the back is vacant.

AwaitYourReply

westgolf wrote: »

Porters was formerly a distribution centre for a news paper contract. Its half way up Dominick on the right as you look from Monroe's towards the cathedral. There is a small dress hire shop in the front unit but the warehouse area at the back is vacant.

Ah that's very interesting. Maybe this particular Porters business entity that once operated a former distribution centre in Galway were also associated with "J.R. Porter Ltd." who operate a chain of newsagent retail outlets in various locations across Ireland & UK. I know that two former Porter's newsagent branches in Cork were subsequently sold to competitor firm, Eason's back in 2014 (at Wilton Shopping Centre & Douglas Court Shopping Centre) although; Porter's have at least two other outlets still operating in Cork city centre on Patrick Street and Paul Street Shopping Centre.

I wonder do Porters have any retail branches operating anywhere in the Galway region given that their distribution centre closed or perhaps it moved elsewhere? Porters carried quite an extensive line of newspapers & magazines in addition to greeting cards, books, confectionery, toys, ice cream etc; I cannot recall spotting any Porter newsagent shops in Galway City over the last 22yrs unless perhaps they've had branches operating in shopping centres based outside of Galway city centre or in rural areas of County Galway?

youngrun

AwaitYourReply wrote: »

Thank you for your positive feedback. If I was based in Galway and if I had significant spare funds available it would be worth consideration. However; a chain of events since '09 has meant that I am not in any financial position to invest in such a project much as I would like. I reckon if the former Nimmos Hostel and former butcher's unit underneath were put up for sale, it may attract major interest from domestic and/or overseas investors. This location is unique for a hostel & coffee shop business as there are no other hostels in Galway City's West End to my knowledge. Close to popular venues like Monroe's and Roisín Dubh's should not make it unsuitable as this can be a plus provided the building has new triple-glazed windows installed throughout as they would be required given that the existing windows fittings are no longer fit for purpose anyway. I remember some years ago, the coffee shop Java's on Upper Abbeygate Street used remain open until about 04:00am some nights and customers had the option of playing board games which gave an alternative to the pub if someone was a night owl but did not necessarily want to be drinking alcohol every time they were out in town? Perhaps a coffee bar with food with late opening hours might work if it is managed differently but it would require some "thinking outside the box".

Nimmo's Hostel premises has been in a rundown state for about 30+ years despite some refurbishment works carried out in recent years. If another programme of improvements was put in place on a phased basis by a new owner/management company it could be brought back up to a satisfactory standard and would also lift the morale of employees. Perhaps a budget/economy model for dormitory guests and have other revenue raising measures like higher tier charges for private room accommodation, coffee/juice/ice cream novelty bar on ground floor in part of old butcher outlet, vending machines with drinks/confectionery in hostel, hostel act as tour ticketing agent, laundry charges, secure storage for valuables for nominal fee, towel hire, bicycle hire agent etc; ticket agent for Monroe's & Roisín Dubh special acts etc;

Francis & John Brennan off the RTÉ broadcast series "At Your Service" would probably have similar suggestions/recommendations based on what they proposed for other hostels needing help in Ireland.

http://www.nimmoshostel.com

Is Nimmos up for sale or likely to be ??!

westgolf

AwaitYourReply wrote: »

Ah that's very interesting. Maybe this particular Porters business entity that once operated a former distribution centre in Galway were also associated with "J.R. Porter Ltd." who operate a chain of newsagent retail outlets in various locations across Ireland & UK. I know that two former Porter's newsagent branches in Cork were subsequently sold to competitor firm, Eason's back in 2014 (at Wilton Shopping Centre & Douglas Court Shopping Centre) although; Porter's have at least two other outlets still operating in Cork city centre on Patrick Street and Paul Street Shopping Centre.

I wonder do Porters have any retail branches operating anywhere in the Galway region given that their distribution centre closed or perhaps it moved elsewhere? Porters carried quite an extensive line of newspapers & magazines in addition to greeting cards, books, confectionery, toys, ice cream etc; I cannot recall spotting any Porter newsagent shops in Galway City over the last 22yrs unless perhaps they've had branches operating in shopping centres based outside of Galway city centre or in rural areas of County Galway?

This part of the family was just in the wholesale and distribution side. The shop was kinda cards n gifts cum office supplies. They moved the distribution base out to monivea road in the late 80's or early 90's and were then bought out by newspread who were building a national network by buying up local firms who had locally based contracts.

AwaitYourReply

youngrun wrote: »

Is Nimmos up for sale or likely to be ??!

I've not been to Galway city since October so; I've absolutely no idea if it is up for sale or; if it is likely to be put on the market any time soon. My impression is that the responsibility of managing Nimmo's hostel had passed on to the next generation in the family but there was little or no enthusiasm to drive it forward for some reason which is probably why it eventually closed altogether.

Nimmo's Hostel had looked promising a few years ago when they decided to update the kitchen/the dining area/the bathrooms in addition to replacing flooring & bunk beds in some of the dormitory bedrooms although; after a short while the updated kitchen units+cupboards/utensils/ware all began to get grotty and untidy again and I won't even mention the refrigerators or refuse waste bins or the chilly draught from the windows that would not close properly! There was no TV set/DVD player or things like books or games evident for hostel guests following the partial refurbishment of facilities. The only relaxation area for guests was the lounge which was attached to the kitchen - Before the refurbishments there had been a separate sitting room with TV but this room seemed to be off-limits to guests after the minor revamp although; I did get a chance to check it out when the door was open one day however; it was no longer suitable for guest use as it needed to be completely re-decorated.

Galway could do with more Hotels, more Tourist Hostels, more B+Bs, more Guesthouses, more Caravan & Camping facilities etc; if it is to take advantage of growth however; if accommodation types like hostels close down permanently or; are sold for a different purpose other than to provide accommodation then it is not good for developing tourism which will also have a negative knock-on effect for local businesses in the city. With Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture now just 13 months away there should be sufficient accommodation provided if there is an additional influx of tourists visiting the city to attend and experience the cultural events that are planned.

I was only reading a Failte Ireland report last night and it mentions that cities such as Galway and Kilkenny need additional accommodation in the next few years as there is a shortage of hotel bedroom stock which means there will be more pressure on other accommodation types too in the form of: Bed & Breakfasts, Guesthouses, Hostels, Self-Catering etc;

IMHO if the former Nimmo's Hostel was to be completely revamped and brought up to the level of standard expected of a Tourist/Backpacker Hostel as it is located in a very popular city that already attracts a significant number of tourists from overseas as Galway continues to be a major resting point along the "Wild Atlantic Way" experience. Galway needs more hotel beds for high season which means when they are full or at premium rates, visitors may also be inclined to consider other forms of accommodation like Hostels in order to spend quality time in the City of the Tribes! Given that the hostel has now been closed for a prolonged period it might also be seriously worth considering a change of hostel name and branding if a major revamp is done and have all sales & marketing updated to promote the updated facilities/location address/telephone/e-mail/website/social media contacts etc;

Reference Sources:

https://www.hostelz.com/hostel/26733-Nimmos-Hostel

https://www.hospitalityireland.com/failte-ireland-calls-investment-hotels-across-key-cities/68162

https://www.hospitalityireland.com/into-the-west-a-report-on-galways-hospitality-sector/23290

https://www.hospitalityireland.com/overseas-visitor-numbers-ireland-grow-7-1/68128

https://www.hospitalityireland.com/irelands-barnacles-hostels-sold-e12m/67769