The proposed expansion of Center Parcs in Longford is a major vote of confidence in the county according to a local Councillor.
Paul Ross believes the firm’s intention to build 198 new lodges as well as an extension of its spa and beverage facilities will bring a further economic boost to Ballymahon and the wider region.
He says several businesses have been set up in the South Longford town since the attraction opened in 2019 and he’s now hopeful the next construction phase will initially create more than 300 new jobs.
While the Fine Gael representative admits there were a number of submissions made on previous applications he says engagement with local residents has been a priority for the firm with a community forum re-established in the last six months.
A decision is due by the end of September on the new plans and Councillor Ross believes the expansion would be a win-win for everyone.
''When they announced their original application a number of years ago they said they had planned to expand in the next decade so it's great to see it so quickly and we've seen a large number of businesses who have based their model somewhat around the Center Parcs model even the likes of the bike hire and coffee shops. All these are seeing a huge boost in the trade. We have plans to upgrade Ballymahon's Main Street and look for a car park for Ballymahon town, also upgrade some of the roads around the Abbeyshrule area.''
