Community activists have sought to kickstart interest in an abandoned hotel in county Clare, saying there is significant demand for hotels in the Bunratty area accrording to those
The eyesore 115-room Shannon Shamrock in Bunratty has remained closed for 14 years, leaving the site vacant.
The absence of development plans has led to concerns about the future use of the property.
The hotel closed in 2010 because it could not find an operator, a situation exacerbated by the global financial recession. A bid of approximately €1.5m was made in 2019. At the time, Savills said they could sell it for around €1.8m.
Originally situated on the De Clare site, the hotel remained operational for over 30 years after its establishment in 1980.
Local authorities can address derelict sites under the Derelict Sites Act 1990, with powers to enforce clean-ups, prosecute non-compliant owners, and potentially purchase land compulsorily.
In a sales description of the Shannon Shamrock in 2019, Savills shared, “The subject site extends to approximately 6.62 acres and is prominently located in the heart of Bunratty village, with the benefit of extensive frontage to both the old Bunratty Road, approximately 165m and the Hill Road, approximately 90m. The former Shannon Shamrock Hotel, while no longer in operation, remains in situ. Planning permission has been obtained for the demolition (which has already been carried out) and refurbishment of part of the existing premises (Phase 1), which would comprise 57 bedrooms and ancillary public areas on completion of Phase 1 renovation.”
