Developers say marina a boost to Shannon

A €60 million expansion at the marina on Lough Derg in Co Tipperary could extend the tourist season in the Shannon region, its developers claim.

The plan, subject to approval by North Tipperary County Council, could provide for 1.5km (nearly a mile) of public walkways, 90 residential units, car parking and a plaza with restaurants, cafés and shops.

The project is being strenuously opposed by locals involved in the Ballina Marina Action Group in Co Tipperary. Eclipse Developments states a viewing platform on top of the marina's "signature building" would allow for views towards "Béal Boru and the lake beyond and southwards towards Ballina and Killaloe".

It proposes locating the new base for the Irish Coast Guard on Lough Derg on the site, while existing boat and marine chandlery services would be "retained and improved".

The plan unveiled yesterday and designed by Murray O'Laoire Architects includes an area designated as an interpretive or educational facility.

The developers forecast a resulting tourism spend of between €2 million and €4 million in the area, and a 15 per cent increase in property values.

However, the Marina Action Group says the proposed design is "highly inappropriate" for the heritage towns of Ballina and Killaloe and more in keeping with a high-tech university campus or a large city centre docklands scheme.