Center Parcs Longford Forest – Holiday Village extension

PLANNING

Center Parcs Longford Forest – Holiday Village extension

MKO acted as the planning and environmental consultant for extending the existing Center Parcs Longford Forest – Holiday Village in Ballymahon, Co. Longford. This development comprises an additional 198 lodges located within the existing holiday village, along with external sauna pods, new cafés and restaurants, extensions to existing retail and leisure buildings including an extension to the Aqua Sana Spa facility, the Sub-Tropical Swimming Paradise and a new pool, along with rooftop solar PV, additional car parking and enhanced landscaping on behalf of Center Parcs Ireland Ltd.

Project challenges

The site is located within an existing holiday village and forest within the centre of the country, with limited public transport options available. Due to its rural nature and location, careful consideration was required to be given to the traffic and transport associated with this site. A detailed Mobility Management Plan and public transport options for staff were included with the application, along with details of arrivals and departures to the village to ensure that traffic in the area is reduced as much as possible.

Given the site was also proposed to be located within an existing forest, careful consideration and detailed ecological and environmental matters were also given due regard. It was proposed to remain solely within the existing holiday village, with a core ideal for Center Parcs being to provide a connection to wildlife and the natural environment for all visitors.

Due to its location on the outskirts of Ballymahon Town, the public was informed throughout the planning process, with a Community Liaison Officer appointed and public meetings held at key junctures to make the community aware of the proposed development and when the application would be lodged.