Architect Stephen Carr leads design for Kilmore Quay Tourism Resort

Stephen Carr leads design for Kilmore Quay tourism resort
Project cited as €180m development
An Coimisiún Pleanála overturned planning approval in August 2026
Main complex features 163-bedroom hotel and 42 family suites
Revised design to be submitted to address concerns

Architect Stephen Carr of Stephen Carr Architects in Wexford is leading design work on a major hospitality resort at Kilmore Quay in County Wexford. The project is officially cited as a €180m development. While the project initially received local approval from Wexford County Council, the national planning body An Coimisiún Pleanála overturned the decision in August 2026 due to concerns regarding visual scale and potential strain on the area’s infrastructure. Local developer Rob Roche and his design team remain committed to the project and plan to submit a revised amended design.

The main complex features a five-star 163-bedroom hotel complete with 42 family suites, a premium spa, a leisure complex and multiple dining venues. The building’s layout was designed so that every public area offers a direct view of the Saltee Islands. The 20.3-hectare blueprint includes 55 separate self-catering family lodges integrated with the natural landscape. The proposal involves repurposing the historic Beak farmstead ruins to house a resort shop, café and arts and crafts spaces.

The project prioritises functional spaces throughout, ensuring views of the Saltee Islands from every public area and avoiding dead-end corridors. Carr, who has designed award-winning properties including Monart Destination Spa, Ferrycarrig Hotel and Hotel Kilkenny, emphasises understanding client needs, longevity and the four key hospitality factors of ambiance, service, fare and value. His practice continues family involvement through his daughter and son-in-law, both architects and directors.