Salthill pub on the market for fraction of cost

A landmark pub in Salthill – which was developed at a cost of almost €3 million less than a decade ago – has been put on the market with a price tag of just €350,000.

The Bal, which re-opened in 2005 after the original ‘Ballinasloe House’ pub was demolished, will be auctioned on July 12.

The three-storey building — which features a modern glass facade — can hold up to 350 people and features bars and seating on each floor.

The original ‘Bal’ – which dates back to the early 1920s – was purchased for €1.3 million in October 2002 by Owen Swaine, who then spent around €1.6m demolishing the premises and constructing the new building.

Colm O’Donnellan of O’Donnellan & Joyce Auctioneers said there have been a number of enquiries about the premises already – the ‘For Sale’ sign went up this week.

“There will be interest in this one. It’s got a great location in the middle of the ‘Golden Mile’ and next door to O’Connor’s. Salthill has had a major revival in recent years, and it is very much a destination now,” said Mr O’Donnellan.