New Waterford water sports centre causing 'headaches' for locals
Inflatable swimming ring, summer and swimming themes, 3d rendering. Digital drawing.
Councillor Tom Cronin has said the new Ardmore water sports centre project is causing “headaches” for locals.
Cllr Cronin asked for an update on the project at the February sitting of the Dungarvan-Lismore District Council.
He suggested that the “famous activity centre” should mean the end of the Sandcastle.
“It would appear to me that there is a lot of opposition to it going ahead unless the Sandcastle is going to be knocked. I think the general view is that we can’t handle both, said Cllr Cronin.
An official from Waterford City and County Council said that wouldn’t be possible.
He also said that the project would be underway soon.
“The water sports facility in Ardmore- the contract award is imminent, and the contract will start before the end of the month.
“In regards to the Sandcastle, you are probably aware at this point that the lifeguard station is located at the Sandcastle, so that can’t be done away with. There is a tender due to be issued in the next two or three weeks to renovate that building, and yes, €60,000 is allocated to that,” said the official.
The new water sports facility was announced as part of a €5 million regeneration project set to start in Ardmore.
In January, Waterford City and County Council said the centre will provide “best-in-class facilities for activities like kayaking, surfing and swimming.
They hope it will attract tourists all year round.
Waterford City and County Council say the water sports centre facility was the “catalyst project” that facilitated the securing of further funding through the Rural Regeneration & Development Fund to deliver a suite of much-needed town centre infrastructural projects.
The project also includes €60,000 to renovate the Sandcastle building.
