This article is from page 22 of the 2005-09-20 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 22 JPG
AN English company made moves this week to secure the go-ahead for a ‘Wellness’ destination Spa hotel near Killaloe.
Last month, Clare County Council refused planning permission to Unfinity Ltd of Worces- tershire, England, to develop a destination spa 28-bedroom hotel on 37 acres of land near Kil- laloe.
The local authority refused the application on three grounds, ruling that the proposal would seriously injure the amenities of the area; that the additional traffic movements would inter- fere with the safety and freeflow of traffic on local roads and that the development’s scale, siting and design would fail to integrate into the rural landscape.
However, the company has now lodged a comprehensive appeal to An Bord Pleanala in a fresh bid to kick-start the project.
In the appeal, the company explains the con- cept behind its development. It states: “The proposal is aimed at a niche market known as ‘Wellness’ destination spas.
‘The destination spa’s sole purpose is to pro- vide guests with lifestyle improvement and health enhancement through professionally administered spa services, physical fitness, edu- cational programming and on-site accommoda- Beer
‘The location 1s a critical part of the guests’ experience, where peace and quietness is the primary consideration and provides a distinct contrast to the busy urban environments most of the visitors will be used to.
“Wellbeing holidays account for 15% of the European holiday market but facilities of this nature are very uncommon in Ireland. The con- cept behind this tourist product is a purpose built spa designed by internationally renowned consultants.”
In their appeal, the company state: “The de- cline of agriculture has deprived the rural com- munity of valuable public, social and economic Services.
“In order to address this concern, the Develop- ment Plan observes that the long-term sustain- able development of rural community can only be achieved through the provision of alternative employment opportunities.
“The proposed development represents an opportunity for the creation of employment op- portunities and inward investment to address rural decline in the surrounding area.
“Whilst agriculture is declining as a source of employment for rural people, the need to retain rural communities is still a major concern for the Council. It is our view that the proposal can be justified on planning grounds in reference to these objectives.”
A decision is due on the appeal in December.