One of the UK’s largest holiday resorts is set to submit planning permission to build a € 100 million complex in Co Longford that would create more than 500 jobs.
Center Parcs is in negotiations with Coillte, the State forestry and landowning company, and Longford County Council for a resort village to be built in the forest in Newcastle, near Ballymahon in Co Longford.
It is expected up to 600 jobs would be created during the construction phase, which is expected to last about 2.5 years.
If plans go ahead on the 375 acre site and the resort is built, more than 500 jobs would be created.
The complex would include a large water dome, at least 200 lodges and villas, restaurants, swimming pools and spas.
The mature and semi-mature woodlands span 800 acres, however for now Center Parcs has bought 375 acres.
It is expected planning permission will be sought within the next six months.
It is understood to be the biggest single private investment in tourism in the history of the State.
Center Parcs has five villages across the UK providing short-break holidays for families with more than 200 indoor and outdoor activities set in forests.
A spokesman for Center Parcs said an official announcement will be made on Thursday.
