Blarney tourist shop to be extended

Plans have been approved to extend the tourist shop at the entrance to Blarney Castle in Cork, despite an objection over concern for the safety of visitors.

An Bord Pleanála has upheld the decision of Cork County Council to allow the owner of the 15th-century castle (home of the famous Blarney Stone), Charles Colthurst, to expand the retail space of the building, which contains a visitor centre.