MKO were commissioned by Ashford Castle Hotel to provide Ecological Services in relation to a masterplan for recreation and amenity enhancement throughout the hotel and grounds. Due to proximity of Lough Corrib SAC to many of the proposed elements of the development, Ecological Impact Assessments and Natura Impact Statements were required. Such assessments were undertaken for a variety of developments including extensions to the hotel building, provision of recreation and Spa facilities, golf course enhancement works, staff accommodation buildings, Swimming Pool and leisure facilities, provision of car parks and road widening works. A detailed Bat Survey was undertaken on the estate and provides information that is applicable to the various applications.
The works involved Ongoing consultation with the project team at the initial design stage of each of the elements of the scheme to avoid the potential for significant impacts on the SAC and other sensitive ecological receptors. Plans were advanced throughout the refurbishment of the hotel and following detailed desk studies and consultation with the National Parks & Wildlife Service, ecological impact assessments and Natura Impact Statements were completed for the various elements in conjunction with each other and with the overall masterplan. All elements of the scheme have been granted planning permission and MKO provided detailed Construction Management Plans and Construction Supervision services to ensure that all prescribed best practice and mitigation was followed. Final Audit reports were completed following completion of each discreet element of the scheme.
