Property developer Lalco, run by Galway man John Lally, last week welcomed the decision by Wicklow County Council to grant planning permission for a major investment project at the 450-acre Humewood Castle and Estate in Wicklow, which will deliver a €250 million integrated tourism offering. It is estimated that 400 jobs will be created during the construction phase with employment for a further 200 when the development is operational.

This significant redevelopment project will involve the sympathetic restoration of the 19th century Humewood castle, which is one of Ireland's largest gothic period castles, placing it at the centre of a 5-star hotel. Lalco expects to commence the castle restoration this year with the entire project due for completion by 2010. Lalco will also develop a premium destination spa and banqueting facility to cater for up to 350 guests.

Lalco has been granted permission to build 57 luxurious serviced tourist lodges to be located throughout Humewood Estate in defined small clusters. This will comprise a mix of three and four bedroom farmyard and lakeside lodges to be completed on a phased basis by 2010.

Welcoming the decision by Wicklow County Council, John Lally, Chief Executive of Lalco, commented: "The renovation of Humewood will be of significant benefit to the local community in Kiltegan and the wider Wicklow area. We are making a substantial long-term investment to create an exclusive tourist destination for the region. We intend to be fully sympathetic to the heritage and history of Humewood Estate and have worked closely with Wicklow County Council and local tourism interests to ensure our plans reflect this. Our overriding aim is to restore Humewood to its former glory allowing a new generation to experience its character and charm".

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