Cathaoirleach Paul Ross welcomes announcement by Center Parcs

15 June 2021

Cathaoirleach Paul Ross, Longford County Council, is delighted to welcome the announcement by Center Parcs of their intention to seek planning permission for an €80 to €85 million investment in Longford Forest. Their announcement proposes 200 additional lodges and an extension to leisure facilities and restaurants which will sit within the existing boundary of their site.

Cathaoirleach Paul Ross commented that it is an extremely exciting development for the economic future of Longford.  It represents a significant vote of confidence in Longford as a place to locate and invest.  Paul said, “Center Parcs Longford Forest is a transformational project for County Longford and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, representing the largest private tourism development in the State. This proposed investment has the potential to be the catalyst which will further consolidate Longford’s position as a tourism destination, bringing with it economic, social and employment benefits and opportunities.”

If planning is approved, it is envisaged that the project will create 300 jobs during construction and a further 250 permanent jobs once operational. Paul continued, “County Longford is centrally located, making it very attractive as a tourism and business location.  Longford County Council will continue to promote Longford as a dynamic, vibrant, safe and prosperous county and a great place to live, work and invest.”  

Longford County Council's Tourism Strategy includes an ambitious programme of work to support the fledgling tourism sector in the county. The heritage, unspoilt countryside and natural assets which are available in the county provide the necessary ingredients for the development of the tourism sector.  Attractions such as the Royal Canal Greenway, Corlea Amenity Park and Knights and Conquests Heritage Centre in Granard have the potential to draw a significant number of visitors to our county.

Paul concluded by saying “We all need to continually talk up our county, highlight all its positive features and ensure that visitors’ expectations are not only met but exceeded.  We all have a vital role in making Longford the place to be."