A full preview of plans for Center Parcs’ first resort in Ireland has been revealed, including 500 lodges.
The company’s €200 million village – its sixth – would include a ‘subtropical summing paradise, spa, shops, restaurants, a lake, outdoor sports and leisure facilities and a nature centre.
The company outlined the details of the 375-acre site at Newcastle Wood, near Ballymahon in County Longford, with the local community and residents.
It was the final in a series of community engagement days hosted by Center Parcs before a planning application is submitted in the autumn.
The resort envisages the creation of around 750 jobs during construction and employment of up to 1,000 people in permanent jobs once operational.
It is estimated that Center Parcs Longford Forest would generate an economic uplift of €1 billion for the Irish economy over the next 20 years.
Center Parcs chief executive, Martin Dalby, said: “Today marks a significant milestone in our plan to bring Center Parcs to Ireland.
“Center Parcs Longford Forest will have a significant impact on the local and regional economy, bringing 1,750 jobs and a €1 billion injection into the economy over a 20-year period.
“We have over 28 years’ experience in developing and operating market leading holiday villages throughout the UK, and we are excited about the prospect of bringing our award winning short break offering to Irish families.
“As we get one step closer to applying for planning permission, our focus today is to continue our dialogue with the community, share our plans and listen to people’s views.”
Center Parcs operates five short break destinations in the UK: Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire; Elveden Forest, Suffolk; Longleat Forest, Wiltshire; Whinfell Forest, Cumbria and Woburn Forest, Bedfordshire.
Each village is set within approximately 400 acres of protected and enhanced woodland.