Centre parcs holiday resort to open in ballymahon hundreds of jobs to be created

CENTER Parcs, UK are to open a major holiday resort in Ballymahon, creating over 500 jobs in the process.

The major holiday resort is to open in Newcastle Woods in Ballymahon. The estimated €300 million investment is expected to create several hundred jobs both during construction and upon its completion.

“The announcement is a huge boost to Longford and the wider Midlands Region," commented Deputy Robert Troy.

"Center Parcs is looking to create up to 600 jobs during construction with a further 500 permanent jobs being put in place once the complex opens.

“This is the first major jobs announcement by the government in Longford since it came to office. It seems to only have recently woken up to the need for greater regional balance in investment patterns across the country. 

“This investment highlights the potential that exists to grow the tourism industry in Longford over the coming years. We have a unique landscape on offer in the Midlands Region that can be marketed to people across Europe. The government and industry stakeholders need to work hard to realise this potential.

“The government, along with Longford County Council, need to ensure there is an efficient planning process to support this investment. There is potential to attract further investment in the future so it is important the process is handled correctly.

Deputy Troy also emphasised the importance of Coillte to the Irish economy and the need to further develop the company in the coming years.

“The announcement also underlines the strategic importance of Coillte to the state. Reports indicate that Center Parcs is looking to lease hundreds of acres of mature and semi-mature forestry at Newscastle. This represents a significant income stream for Coillte and by extension the entire country will benefit.

“There is significant potential to grow Coillte in the coming years by attracting companies such as Center Parcs to enter into long term leasing arrangements and developing renewable energy centres.

“The government needs to recognise the strategic importance of Coillte and ensure that it remains in the hands of the Irish people” said Deputy Troy.