€5m health and leisure centre tipped for Kerry seaside resort

A 15-YEAR campaign for a public swimming pool in one of the country’s best-known seaside resorts has paid off with the signing of a €5m contract for the project.

Tourism Minister John O’Donoghue attended the signing of the contract for the Ballybunion Health and Leisure Centre, which will include a 20-metre pool, a children’s water play area, a gymnasium, an adult health suite, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and a juice bar/steam room.

Ballybunion Health and Leisure Centre chairman Jackie Hourigan said the facility would be marketed to longer-stay tourists in Ballybunion and would help increase the family market.

“It will also address the present lack of independent weather facilities in the resort,” he added.

The centre will be available to all schools in North Kerry and various clubs and organisations in the area.

A €3.78m grant has been allocated and local people have raised €1.2m. Kerry County Council has donated a town centre site for the complex. Shannon Development has also provided financial assistance.

Main contractors are Michael O’Connor & Sons, Craughdarrig, Asdee.

Ballybunion continues to be a top golfing destination, boasting two internationally-acclaimed links.