THE project to be developed on the 120 acre landbank site next to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is to be identified early next year. Shannon Development are currently seeking expressions of interest for a major new tourism attraction at the site, including opportunities for foreign direct investment (FDI). Tourism Product Development Manager for the Shannon Region, Flan Quilligan, told a tourism briefing that the aim for the new attraction is to “mix culture and heritage”.
“We want to identify the right kind of project and are using the same model as was used for Doonbeg Golf Club, which was the result of FDI.
“We consider this to be a significant opportunity to develop the overall attraction by utilising the adjoining lands to develop complementary and sustainable visitor facilities in keeping with the authenticity of the existing attraction and surrounding area”.
The proposed site is to the rear of the castle and folk park, in the opposite direction of main road.
In 2009, the South Clare Local Area Plan was adopted and specific land zonings were applied to the Shannon Development owned lands in Bunratty, allowing for a wide range of developments to be considered.
Examples of the nature and type of projects sought to be developed at the site are:
-Ireland Through the Ages. A History and Cultural Centre incorporating a diaspora visitor centre and genealogy centre
-A themed adventure park aimed at family market
The closing date for expressions of interest at the site is set for March 30 2012.
