Clare County Council has officially granted planning permission for a new 320-seat ballroom at the Trump International Golf Links and Hotel in Doonbeg, West Clare.
The development by TIGL Ireland Enterprises Limited includes demolition of the existing marquee and Doughmore House to make way for a single storey venue accommodating up to 320 guests
The project, which Eric Trump previously described as potentially “the nicest ballroom in the country,” includes several key details and conditions:
Approval is subject to 14 conditions. A primary requirement is a management plan to protect the Vertigo angustior, a microscopic rare snail species found on the site. The council stated this is necessary to comply with the EU Habitats Directive.
The new 1,240-square-metre building will replace an “outdated” temporary marquee. It will feature a main function room, reception area, bar, bridal suite, and back-of-house facilities.
The application received 17 third-party submissions, with 13 in favour. Supporting groups included Doonbeg GAA and the Doonbeg Men’s Shed, who cited the potential for long-term sustainable employment and enhanced tourism.
Planning consultants argued the ballroom is essential for the resort’s continued viability as a “key economic driver” for West Clare, allowing it to host weddings and conferences year-round.
Construction on the project, designed by Healy Partners Architects, is expected to reinforce the resort’s status as a major tourism asset in the region.
Joe Russell GM of Trump Resort Donbeg shared “We are naturally very pleased that Clare County Council has granted planning permission for the proposed ballroom development at Trump Ireland.” Joe Russell shared “This represents a very important step in the continued evolution of the resort. The ballroom will significantly strengthen our ability to grow the weddings, corporate, incentive and events markets, while complementing the scale and character of the existing property.”
