Time is fast running out for funding to be secured to allow for a complete refurbishment of Lahinch Seaworld and Leisure centre.
Building works are underway on a multi-million euro upgrade of the facility, but as things stand, some planned elements of the project have to be removed, because of a funding shortfall.
Planning permission was granted two years ago for the much-needed regeneration of Lahinch Seaworld and Leisure World, and works there are now underway.
Over €4 million has been fundraised to reach this stage, but that’s short of what’s required to deliver all elements of the plan including a baby pool.
That would cost an additional 200,000 euro, while other elements that have also had to be omitted from the works would cost up to 500,000 more.
An online petition set up this week has gathered over 400 signatures from members of the community calling for the project to be completed in line with the original plans.
Local resident and father of two young children, Alan Davis set it up.
He believes children from the local community and beyond will miss out on valuable education on water safety if the baby pool isn’t included.
While those behind this redevelopment have already secured funding from a range of Statutory and philanthropic sources, some of this is time-limited meaning building works have had to begin or that money would have been lost.
But unless the additional funding is found soon, then the project will be completed without the baby pool.
Fianna Fail Councillor Shane Talty says difficult decisions have had to be made to date, but he adds that there is still time.
Fine Gael Councillor Joe Garrihy is a former Manager of Lahinch Seaworld.
He’s appealing to all stakeholders to play their part in ensuring the original plans come to fruition, saying it’s not just a local matter, but one that affects all of Clare, and beyond.
