Clare Fm - Podcasts

Clare is believed to have a shortage of over 1,000 hotel beds. Incentivising the construction of new tourism accommodation is just one of the aims of a new scheme proposed by Clare County Council's Economic Development Strategic Policy Committee. Public consultation is to take place on a waiver scheme that would give a reduction in commercial rates to certain businesses in Clare over a three-year period. Under the proposal, new-build hotels, hostels, recreational vehicle campervan sites, nursing homes and creches would all be eligible for a reduction. Those redeveloping vacant units for hospitality or nursing home purposes would also be able to avail of the scheme, as would businesses located on ground floors where the upper floors are converted to residential accommodation from 2026 onwards. Figures from the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment show there are currently 9,574 hotel bed spaces in Clare which is 337 fewer than in 2023. Clare County Council Economic Development SPC member, Quilty Fia