Planning permission has been granted for a major expansion to Center Parcs in Longford.
The holiday firm has sought to build 198 new lodges, as well as an extension to it spa and sub tropical swimming pool features.
The €80 million euro project would expand the 300 plus lodges already on site at three different zones within the footprint of the existing 160 hectare site at Newcastle woods.
The majority of the new lodges will be three bedroom, with a number of executive lodges also planned for.
Center Parcs also hopes to develop a new coffee shop, lakeside restaurant, and energy centre as well as expanding the spa and developing a new 850m squared swimming pool at its sub tropical paradise.
An additional 313 staff car parking spaces are also to be created, including the installation of electric vehicle charging points, along with staff welfare and storage facilities.
The application has been the subject of several submissions from locals, one which highlighted concerns over traffic levels on the R392, while another referenced worries over the environmental effects on the local woodland.
The planning application has been approved by Longford County Planners with 20 conditions attached.
These include provisions for a developer contribution of close to €330,000 and a ruling that governs the protection of local water bodies
