WICKLOW COUNTY TOURISM WELCOMES HUMEWOOD DEVELOPMENT

Issued 04 April 2008

Wicklow County Tourism has warmly welcomed the announcement of a €200 million tourist development at Humewood Castle in Kiltegan. The project has been given the go-ahead by Wicklow County Council to proceed with the major works, which are set to enhance tourist facilities in the area.

The stunning Gothic Revival Castle is located on 450-acres of land at Kiltegan. Planning permission was granted in March for property developer Lalco’s multi-million development.

Plans include restoration of the 19th century castle and the construction of a 120-bed five star hotel. 57 tourist lodges, 18-hole golf course and a leisure centre are also included in the plans. The approval of plans to transform the site will result in 400 new jobs during construction and a further 200 jobs once the development is completed.

The restoration is expected to begin this year, with the project due for completion in 2010. Lalco will develop a spa and banqueting facility, which will cater for up to 350 people.

Cllr. Tom Fortune has welcomed Wicklow County Council’s decision to give the development the go-ahead, describing it as good news for tourism in the Garden County.
“This development will be a boost to not only the local community but to the county as a whole in terms of tourism. This is a major development, which will draw a considerable number of tourists into Co. Wicklow on an annual basis and enhance Humewood Castle and grounds.”