Double Visas Investments Limited has applied for the change of use of the existing vacant and unfinished restaurant and retail units on Bridge Street in the town.

Roscommon county planners have deemed the housing scheme to be unattractive, which would not accord with the character of the area and would injure its existing amenities.

The submission comprised of the construction of 44 two and three-storey houses and apartments in the Monksland area.

Plans include the tower along with permission for antennae, dishes and other telecom equipment.

AMC Developments limited applied to Longford County Council in July for the construction of 42 new homes.

Permission had been sought for the change of use of the former Cigar factory in the Town.

The development will include the boring of a 4,546 cubic meter water storage lagoon and the construction of a pumping station.

The proposal consists of a new restaurant, new breakfast room, reception area, extended bar area, ancillary rooms and 60 bedrooms.