News

Center Parcs releases details of Co Longford complex

Map of planned Center Parcs site in Co Longford
Map of planned Center Parcs site in Co Longford Map of planned Center Parcs site in Co Longford

HOLIDAY company Center Parcs has more details of its proposed first 'village' in the Republic.

The €233 million holiday complex in Newcastle Wood, close to Ballymahon, Co Longford, could attract 250,000 visitors to the county every year, the company says.

The new 395 acre holiday village is expected to open in 2019, subject to being granted planning permission.

A spa, restaurants, cafes, 30 apartments, 470 lodges and a "subtropical swimming paradise" are included in the plans.

If the holiday complex is built, it is expected to create 1,000 permanent jobs.

The company formally submitted its planning application to Longford County Council yesterday.

The council will now carry out a five-week consultation on the plans.

Center Parcs CEO Martin Dalby said the submission of the planning application was a "key milestone" on the way to building the company's first holiday village in Ireland.

"This is one of the biggest tourism developments in the history of the Midlands and will have a hugely positive economic impact on the area," he said.

"We have more than 28 years' experience in the UK and I'm genuinely excited about the prospect of bringing that quality short break experience to Ireland."