Centre Parc's 100 million euro expansion of their Longford Forest resort must come hand in hand with upgrades to local infrastructure.
That's the argument of local Councillor Paul Ross who praised An Bord Pleanála's decision to uphold permission for the works in Ballymahon.
The plans include the development of close to 200 new lodges, sauna pods and staff welfare facilities along with a new coffee shop and restaurant at the resort in Longford.
Extensions are also planned for the holiday destination's Sub Tropical Swimming Paradise facilities, which will see a new swimming pool, sports hall extension and work on a number of in situ cafe and restaurants.
The plans had been the subject of an appeal by Sustainability 2050 and Peter Walsh over concerns the existing development and any future expansion would have on regional infrastructure.
Reacting to the news today, Councillor Ross says Longford County Council must work to improve road, water and waste infrastructure locally to ensure current and future development.
Speaking to Shannonside News today, the Fine Gael Councillor says the location of Centre Parcs outside of Ballymahon has brought significant knock on benefits for the town:
