Wheels of Fortune: Double-Decker Bus Airbnb to Rev Up Portrush Tourism

A proposal to convert a stationary double-decker bus into an Airbnb in Portrush has been given the green light after an appeal overturned the local council’s initial rejection.

The original plan, which involved situating the bus at West Bay, was met with resistance from planners who argued that the vehicle would be an intrusive addition to the coastal landscape, causing the loss of valuable open space.

Additionally, the nearby Curry’s Funpark operators voiced concerns, suggesting that noise complaints from future occupants could pose a problem.

However, the Planning Appeals Commission overturned the council’s decision earlier this month. The Commission remarked that the vintage double-decker would harken back to Portrush’s early 20th-century charm, potentially adding a nostalgic allure to the area.

The applicant, Emma Mullan from Garvagh, plans to refurbish the 9-metre-long bus by transforming the ground floor into a lounge, kitchen, and storage space. The upper deck will house three bedrooms and a shower.

Supporting documents submitted by the applicant's agent argued that the bus would attract tourists and benefit the local economy by encouraging visitors to explore and patronise nearby shops, leisure facilities, and hospitality venues.

They maintained that the project's tourism and community advantages outweigh the concerns regarding the loss of open space.