The development of a major holiday resort in Co. Longford will bring 1,000 permanent jobs and 750 construction jobs to the region, it has been announced this morning.
UK based Center Parcs, is planning a €200 million resort at Newcastlewood, a 375-acre Coillte owned site near Ballymahon.
The resort is expected to open to guests in 2019 and will cater for up to 2,500 guests, subject to planning permission.
The development will be one of the largest ever investment and job creation projects in the Midlands. It is believed
that local businesses will benefit hugely from the resort with an estimated €32 million annually reaching the local economy through passing trade.
The development will include more than 500 lodges and villas, over 100 indoor and outdoor activities, as well as spas, restaurants, bars and a swimming pool complex.
Center Parcs will reportedly seek planning permission for the resort within the next six months.
The announcement was made today, in Ballymahon, by An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny and Center Parcs CEO, Martin Dalby.