Neglected Ard Rí an 'affront to the people of Waterford'

The long-dormant Ard Rí site was raised, and not for the first time, at the recent Metro meeting. 

Councillor Donal Barry (Independent) asked about the current status of the site and its future. 

Cllr Barry later stated: "As we observe the construction on the first phase of the North Quays development, it becomes evident that this project promises to be both impressive and transformative for the City and County of Waterford upon its completion.

"Yet, amidst these ambitious developments, the former Ard Rí Hotel stands as an untapped asset with enormous potential to attract tourists. Its commanding views of the river, estuary, city, and quays make it a prime location that could significantly contribute to enhancing Waterford's tourism appeal.

"However, it is a matter of great disappointment that the people of Waterford are relegated to merely observing the neglect of the Ard Rí Hotel. This state of dereliction, not only reflects poorly on the site but also stands as an affront to the people of Waterford."

The embattled site was recently caught between a legal issue between Treacy's Hotel Group and US fund Cerebus but the matters have since been resolved. 

Cllr Barry continued, stating that "urgent action is required to reverse this disregard."

He asked: "Has the Council sought engagement with the owner concerning the future for the site? Has the City Council contemplated acquiring the property?

"Has the Council considered partnership opportunities with potential investors and hotel conglomerates to revitalize this landmark hotel back into hotel accommodation which we are told we are short of."

Cllr Barry said: "To overlook the Ard Rí Hotel is to overlook an immense opportunity to enrich Waterford’s hotel offerings, a venue for local and national social events and as a tourist destination.

"The people of Waterford City and County deserve nothing less than to see the Ard Rí Hotel returned to its former glory."