Renewed calls have been made for a new hotel to be developed in one of Clare’s most prominent tourist villages.
It comes as An Coimisúin Pleanála has refused plans for a housing estate to be built on the site of the former Shannon Shamrock Hotel.
For now, at least one more chapter in the saga of the Shannon Shamrock Hotel has come to an end.
Last October, Clare County Council gave the green light for the site to be demolished and repurposed as a 67-unit housing development.
This was staunchly objected by locals and bodies such as Fáilte Ireland, and ultimately An Coimisúin Pleanála overruled the decision of its own inspector and refused the plans, citing concerns for Bunratty tourism and the Castle’s visual amenity.
Cratloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat O’Gorman says the village is crying out for extra bed spaces.
The Bunratty Local Development Association, meanwhile, wants to see an amenity that will benefit the community at the strategic space.
Spokesperson Kevin O’Connor says something as simple as parking would have a major impact.
Listen to the full interview here
