Survey Data
Reg No
13002211
Rating
Regional
Categories of Special Interest
Architectural, Artistic, Social
Previous Name
Bank of Ireland
Original Use
Bank/financial institution
In Use As
Shop/retail outlet
Date
1900 - 1905
Coordinates
213169, 275376
Date Recorded
24/08/2005
Date Updated
--/--/--
Description
End-of-terrace single-bay single-storey former bank, built 1903. Now in use as shop. Pitched slate roof, cast-iron rainwater goods and stepped parapet with dressed granite panel and moulded cornice. Flag pole to centre of front elevation. Coursed ashlar granite faced façade, rendered lined-and-ruled walls to north elevation. Late-twentieth century timber shopfront. Square-headed openings with fixed timber frame display windows and glazed timber door. Road-fronted to the west side of Main Street, Longford Town, with gated laneway to the north.
Appraisal
This interesting and unusual structure was originally built as a bank by the Bank of Ireland in 1901 - 3, probably as an extension to the former bank building adjacent to the south (13002213). The choice of design for this building draws on the traditional classical theme used for bank building architecture at this time, the classical theme helping to convey a sense of security and permanence it to its customers. Fine craftsmanship is evident in the construction of the granite façade. The use of granite as the building material is unusual in Longford Town. It contributes to the character of the streetscape and has a strong architectural presence despite its small-scale.