Multi-million euro investment in Clare attraction sees new job opportunities
NEW JOBS will be introduced as part of a multi-million euro redevelopment of the popular West Clare visitor attraction.
Ten new permanent jobs will be created over the next 12 months at Vandeleur Walled Garden and Visitor Centre in Kilrush.
The announcement was made on Tuesday, October 24 by Clare County Council at the signing of a contract with Martins Construction Ltd. for the development of a 140-seater indoor and outdoor café and restaurant.
Following a competitive tender process for the restaurant, award-winning Brambles Café chain, were awarded the tender for operating the new facility. This will allow for Vandeleur Walled Garden and Visitor Centre to cater for corporate and festive events.
It is anticipated that the new facility will open in June 2024.
Works have been ongoing since 2021 to extensively restore and renovate the site as part of an overall Visitor Development Strategy that also includes the improved use of the 420 acres of surrounding native woodland.
Earlier this year, a new interpretive centre was opened together with the newly renovated stable block, a new gardener’s maintenance building and public toilet facilities.
The Department of Rural and Community Development also has approved funding totalling €245,000, with 25% match funding from Clare County Council, for the recently completed resurfacing of the public carpark and other ancillary service works.
“Vandeleur Walled Garden and Visitor Centre is a key contributor to the West Clare economy. This development will add greatly to the overall visitor experience and will facilitate increased length of stay and visitor spend in the local area,” said Cllr. Joe Cooney, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council.
While Noel Kilkenny, Chairperson of Kilrush Amenity Trust CLG said: “Our ambition always has been to establish a focal point for visitors to commence their journey through West Clare. This additional on-site development will assist us in further enhancing Vandeleur’s growing reputation as a signature attraction in County Clare.”
Leonard Cleary, Director of Rural Development and West Clare MD with Clare County Council, described Vandeleur Walled Garden and Visitor Centre as “an ideal match” for Brambles’ existing business.
“This family-run business produces a world-class dining experience as evidenced by its service offering at the Cliffs of Moher Experience since 2019,” he explained. “The proposed new facility is good news for local suppliers and customers as their Team at Vandeleur seeks to develop a menu incorporating a strong Clare influence.”
Brambles’ menus currently feature a host of Clare produce having established links with CS Fish, CMK Foods, Kellys Meats, Pynes Potatoes, Burren Smokehouse, Clare Jams, Celtic Leaves, Cleanwell, Cratloe Hills Cheese, Clare Foods and Hurst Botanicals.
The new café and restaurant development consists of restoration work and alterations within the existing stable block courtyard to support tourism development, including a café and restaurant, indoor and outdoor dining area, kitchen, office and welfare facilities.