A POPULAR Belfast pub is set to create 20 new jobs after revealing plans for an extension.
McCracken's Bar is set to develop its premises at Joys Entry, with plans submitted for works last month. According to the development proposal as many as 20 jobs could be created as part of the proposals, which include a new single storey rear extension, complete with an outdoor terrace and the incorporation of a vacant storage warehouse at the bar to become part of the existing public house. The plans also outline details in relation to "minor internal alterations", "elevational changes" and "associated works" at the site.
The application states that the workforce could double in size from 20 to 40 as a result of the development and could significantly increase daily custom at the bar. The plans were received by Belfast City Council on November 28, with the applicant listed as 3 Wise Men Pubs Ltd, a company which has 31-year-old Jim Conlon listed as the sole director and with an address in Stranmillis.
The bar was previously owned by Co Down business Seamus Harrison, whose Beechill Inns Group portfolio also once contained the Basement Bar in Belfast's Donegall Square, Queen's Cafe Bar and the Beechill Inn in Newtownbreda.
McCracken's Bar is named in honour of Mary Ann Cracken, the sister of Henry Joy McCracken who, in 1791, helped establish the Society of United Irishmen.
She was a great influence on her brother and was with him when he was taken to execution for his part in the 1798 rebellion. Joy’s entry is named after Henry Joy and is said to mark the route of his final journey to execution at the Market House in nearby Cornmarket.
In addition to the development proposals at McCracken's, McKenna's Bar at the corner of Dock Street and Garmoyle Street in the city has submitted plans for a rooftop smoking terrace. The application from Brian McKenna, which also includes associated toilets and stores, would increase the size at the premises and create one new job if approved by planners.
