Promoters of a new €170 million integrated tourism project at Kilmore Quay, Co Wexford, say it will bring 370 new jobs to the area if it gets planning permission.
South African golfer Ernie Els was in Co Wexford yesterday for the launch of the project, which is being developed by Seashore Leisure Limited, a consortium of local and national business interests.
The project, claimed to be the first of its kind in the south-east, includes plans for a five-star hotel with 200 rooms, a golf course designed by Els, an equestrian centre, a spa and a 350-berth marina at Kilmore Quay.
"The team and I are very excited about designing the course," said Els.
"This site is fantastic, with beautiful ocean views and we are here to find the very best golf it has to offer. We will take advantage of the flat sand and the sand dunes.
"The landscape lends itself naturally to becoming a championship course which will attract not only international visitors, but will also bring great enjoyment to all Wexford and Irish golfers."
To deal with environmental concerns the consortium has commissioned a report from local environmentalist, Jim Hurley.
The consortium says it will work with Wexford County Council on all issues to be addressed prior to the planning application.
"We're not willing to compromise the environment for money," said Robert Roche, a director of Seashore Leisure Limited.
"It's important that this project is ecologically and environmentally sound. This will be done through the use of sensitive design which will fit and blend with the local landscape", he said.
The consortium is expected to apply for planning permission within the next six months.
If granted, it is estimated that it will take 36 months for the project to be completed.
Also yesterday, Els visited a second Irish golf project in which he is involved, at Hangman's Point, near Kinsale, Co Cork.
Hangmans Point derives its name from a local landmark and was once the Kinsale racecourse. Els has described it as a "phenomenal" site for a golf course.
This project was announced earlier this year. A planning application has been made to Cork County Council, which is seeking further information.
Fifteen objections to the project have been received.