Appeal made against Burren centre proposal

PLANS for a unique tourism product on the eastern edge of the Burren that has the potential to generate €3 million per annum and create up to 18 jobs have been thrown into doubt.

Last month, Clare County Council granted planning permission to Fintan O’Brien, Kieran Casey and Brian O’Shaughnessy to construct a Wellness Centre near Ruan that includes a 15-unit tourist accommodation centre.

However, An Taisce has lodged an appeal to An Bord Pleanála opposing the decision, claiming that pollution was a major issue in developing and maintaining the project.

Heritage officer Ian Lumley said “neither Clare County Council nor the applicant has adequately addressed the geology and landscape features that affect not only the groundwater resources of this site, but also for those of the region”.

Consultants for the applicants, Corey Stevens, said it was a unique opportunity and needed to be in the countryside to “manifest the intuitive belief of serenity that is key to the tourist product”.

Planning documents lodged with the application state that the proposal is to be operated by Clare Resorts, a group which, in 2008, brought more than 8,000 tourists to Clare through its accommodation products, resulting in a €7m boost for the local economy.

According to the documents, it took the company five years to develop the centre to its full potential.

A decision is due on the appeal later this year.