by Alan Jacques
ADARE Manor Hotel and Golf Resort, which was purchased by JP McManus for €30 million last year, has closed its doors to the public ahead of a €50 million refurbishment which is due to start in March.
The development includes a 7,664sqm extension to the five-star hotel which generates an estimated €5 million for the local economy each year.
The work is expected to take around 18 months and will include upgrading and restoring internal finishes, furniture and woodwork, and repairing the external stonework and windows.
Planning permission for the project was granted by Limerick City and County Council last week subject to 22 conditions including provision for a five year bat monitoring programme “ to enable a multi-annual pattern of bat activity in the area to be ascertained”.
Subject to planning permission, the construction of an additional bedroom wing will add extra bedrooms bringing the total room count to 104 bedrooms, while the addition of a splendid new ballroom will have the capacity of 350 people catering for events and international conferences.
General manager of the Adare Manor and Golf Resort, Anita Higgins, described the temporary closure as an “intermission before starting a glorious new chapter in 2017”.
“This is a new beginning in Adare Manor’s grand history. Great care and attention has been taken in drawing up the proposed plans which will ensure the renovations honour the building’s architectural heritage and maintain the hotel’s signature style and world renowned status,” Ms Higgins explained.
The enhancements in the Manor House will also include a new state-of-the-art spa, pool and relaxation area, boardroom and cinema.
There are also plans afoot to enhance and improve the 800-acres of parkland at the Manor, with a new activity centre making an extensive range of new pursuits available to guests including falconry, archery and a children’s activity zone.
It is envisaged that the newly refurbished property will increase visitor numbers, from both Ireland and around the world, to County Limerick and the Shannon region.
