Eco-experts at Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Ireland conducted a survey to assess the habitat of the protected narrow-mouthed whorl snail (Vertigo angustior), flying out 200 soil subsamples for analysis. The findings are part of a newly lodged report with Clare County Council.
The hotel has submitted an updated planning application that scales back earlier proposals, which initially included converting Doughmore House for recreational use and constructing new sports facilities. The revised plan eliminates proposed works at Doughmore House, reducing potential environmental impacts.
The report indicates that planned developments at O’Dea’s Barn and Healy House will not affect the snail populations within the Carrowmore Dunes Special Area of Conservation. This adjustment is in response to earlier concerns from Clare County Council regarding potential ecological impacts.
A recent monitoring report noted a total of 133 Vertigo angustior shells were found in the survey, marking an increase from the previous year. However, it also highlighted that the species is in terminal decline in the maritime grassland dunes, while becoming more prevalent within the golf course areas.
