The latest attempt by a lone objector to halt the €150 million Greg Norman-designed Doonbeg golf resort was dismissed yesterday as being "without substance or foundation" by An Bord Pleanála.
The bord cleared the final hurdle for the club to commence building a 58-luxury suite complex, along with a new golf clubhouse and 80 holiday homes.
Already the golf club, officially opened since July 2002, has sold 23 of the suites in the first phase, with some four-bedroom suites realising €1.5 million each.
The construction of the residential component of the golf course represents the largest ever tourism-related investment in Co Clare. The investment is expected to result in between 200 and 250 jobs at the resort.
Construction work was due to start on the project last autumn, but this was put on hold following an appeal by Mr David McNamara, of Ballykeelaun House, Parteen, against the decision by Clare County Council.
Mr McNamara complained about the number of holiday homes, and the impact the proposal would have on an adjoining Special Area of Conservation (SAC). However, the appeals board yesterday rejected the appeal.
It is the second time that An Bord Pleanála has dismissed an appeal by Mr McNamara against the Doonbeg resort as being without substance or foundation.
Mr McNamara's opposition to the golf course stems from his claim that part of the 18th fairway is his property. This claim is disputed by the golf club.
