Planning granted for Tipp eco-tourism attraction

Planning granted for eco-tourism attraction

Planning permission has been granted for a new eco-tourism attraction in Tipperary, one that will educate visitors about local biodiversity.

Sean O’Farrell was last week granted conditional permission for an agri-tourism educational development on his farm in the rural townland of Cloncannon, Moneygall.

It is to consist of a single-storey classroom with WC, kitchenette, wheelchair ramp, car park, revised entrance layout, connection to existing wastewater treatment system and all ancillary works.

The development centres on ‘Eye on Nature’, a microscopy room where visitors can learn about biodiversity and issues of nature conservation, low impact agricultural practices, sustainable construction materials, and nature enhancement and conservation.

“This facility will be an educational and eco-tourism attraction, offering visitors a unique view of the microscopic biodiversity of our local landscape,” Mr O’Farrell wrote as part of his planning application.

“The ‘Eye on Nature’ room is conceived as a model of Regenerative Tourism. It will not only bring visitors to rural Tipperary but will actively connect them with our local community and natural environment.

“We will collaborate with local schools for educational outreach and source supplies from local businesses, ensuring that tourism revenue circulates within the community and supports its long-term vitality.”

‘MUST-VISIT DESTINATION’

“As Tipperary gains international recognition as a must-visit destination for its heritage and landscapes, this facility will offer a high-quality, sustainable attraction that enhances the county's eco-tourism offering and encourages visitors to explore beyond the main towns,” Mr O’Farrell wrote.

“The ‘Eye on Nature’ microscopy room represents a small-scale, high-impact investment in our rural future.

“It is a tangible example of how farming, technology, and tourism can converge to create something that benefits our local economy, educates our visitors, and celebrates the natural world.”

The project is part-funded by the EU Just Transition Fund.

The facility is to open from March to October, with prebooked visitor groups and no “walk-in guests”.

The number of visitors to the facility is anticipated to be low, approximately 10-20 people per week during off-peak season and 30 people per week at peak season, with the majority of these guests travelling to the facility by minibus. Each group would spend approximately four hours at the site, allowing two hours for field work and two hours for class work.

Tipperary Co Council granted planning subject to a number of conditions, including a requirement for the operating hours of the agri-tourism educational facility to be restricted to between 7am to 9pm, Monday to Sunday.