Not fully ready for Resort Scheme?

September 1995

THE Department of the Environment has been accused of putting the cart before the horse by introducing the Seaside Resort Scheme to Arklow before necessary tourism infrastructure and facilities are in place.

Concern that the scheme may be premature was expressed at the launch of the scheme in Arklow this week, which was attended by representatives of Arklow’s business and commercial community.

Arklow businessman John O’Halloran stressed that there was an urgent need for movement on the proposed sewerage plant and the swimming pool, among other projects.

He warned that the sewage problem in the river would scare off potential tourists and that there was also a need for the town to provide amenities which would hold tourists once they come into Arklow.

His concerns were echoed by local representative Cllr Nicky Kelly, who said that while the Seaside Resort Scheme was a positive step, it did not take Arklow’s special needs into account.

He said that the town needed an additional kick-start to bring it up to the same level as other traditional seaside resorts so that it could make the fullest use of the scheme.

However, Minister Liz McManus and local authority officials were confident that the timing was right for the scheme and urged the people of the town to seize the opportunity with both hands.

Assistant county manager Eddie Breen reminded the business community that the scheme would only run until 1998. ‘We have to fight and get what we can. Infrastructure will follow,’ he said.

County manager Blaise Treacy pointed out that there was very heavy investment scheduled for the town of Arklow, starting with a £40m bypass, a sewerage scheme and new housing.

Deputy Liz McManus said that the infrastructure of the town was progressing and told the business community of the town that the Seaside Resort Scheme was an opportunity for them to make a real difference to their town.

She said that it was a battle to get Arklow included in the scheme, but she had argued the need for accommodation close to Brittas Bay would be best answered in Arklow, where a range of tourist facilities could be sustained.