Approval for extension to Virginia marina project

Virginia looks set to get an extension to its floating marina after the granting of planning permission by Cavan County Council.

Ramor Water Sports Club had applied for approval to extend the marina, which was originally built almost a decade ago.

It comes as the club has launched a major fundraiser to improve accessibility at the lake.

Planning permission for the marina was first granted in 2010.

The club received funding of €200,000 under the Leader programme with the Lough Ramor facility opened in 2013. The remaining €100,000 needed was raised by the club.

At the time it was described as a one of a kind facility, with nothing like it in Ireland.

An application for the extension was lodged with the Council in May but significant further information was requested from the Club.

The marina is located at the Lakeside Manor Hotel in the town.

The Council requested a traffic report and an outline of measures to prevent pollution or an impact on Lough Ramor, which is designated as a natural heritage site.

A Natura Impact Statement was submitted with the application, which was drawn up by the Hanley Taite Design Partnership on behalf of Ramor Water Sports Club.

Cavan County Council last week granted planning permission, subject to eight conditions.

Included is the need to adhere to guidance issued by Inland Fisheries Ireland on carrying out construction work on or near to waterways. A visual examination of surface waters must be carried out weekly and the need for measures to be in place to prevent pollution or deal with it quickly if an incident does occur.

Fundraiser

Ramor Watersports Club has launched an effort to raise funds for a new accessible boat to improve accessibility to the lake for people with disabilities.

Launched last Saturday night, the fundraiser was attended by Project Ambassador para athlete Kerrie Leonard. The group’s other Ambassador Britney Arendse is competing in world Powerlifting Championships in Georgia.

Kerrie says she’s proud to be a part of the project:

“I'm very excited to be involved with the project and seeing the opportunity that the Wheelyboat will provide for years to come. It is going to provide access to everyone and break down barriers to participation for people with disabilities.”

The group hopes to raise €30,000 for the wheelyboat by the end of January. It has already been ordered and it is expected to be delivered by the end of March.

The Irish Wheelchair Association, Cara Rehabilitation, Cavan Sports Partnership have given their support and National Lottery funding has been secured but there is a shortfall of €30,000 which has to be gathered through fundraising.

Fully accessible, the boat will allow wheelchairs aboard. Club members are already undergoing training towards their qualification to drive the boat. Twelve have already achieved the Powerboat Level 2 Licence.

See ramorwatersportsclub.ie for more.