Bunratty
Bunratty Location and Context Bunratty is situated within the Limerick-Shannon Metropolitan Area. The Metro Politian Area Strategic Plan aims to strengthen the role of the Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area as an international location of scale, and a primary driver of economic growth in the Southern Region. Bunratty is home to the world acclaimed 15th century Bunratty Castle (RPS260). The castle was built by the powerful McNamara family in 1425 and became the stronghold of the O’Brien’s, the largest clan in north Munster in the late 15th Century. The reign of the O’ Brien’s came to an end with the arrival of Cromwellian troops and the Castle was surrendered. The O’Briens never returned to Bunratty but later they built Dromoland Castle. Bunratty Castle was returned to its former splendour when extensive restoration works began in 1945 with the assistance of the Office of Public Works, the Irish Tourist Board and Shannon Development. The castle is a national monument and is open to the public all year round. Adjacent to the castle is the enchanting walled garden and Folk Park which authentically replicates 19th century village life in Ireland. Ideally located along the Shannon Estuary Way, Bunratty village is a major tourist destination based around Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, surrounded by an essentially rural hinterland. Bunratty’s proximity to Limerick City, Shannon Town and Shannon International Airport is an advantage. The importance of the tourism industry to Bunratty is evident in visitor numbers which stood at over 352,000 in 2016, and is also evident in the extent of land zoned for tourism development. The Castle and Folk Park have opened up trade and employment opportunities for hotels and local businesses, giving rise to a small, but thriving commercial centre based on the tourism industry. The settlement has a tight knit form centred on the Castle and Folk Park. There are also numerous tourism-based businesses including Blarney Woollen Mills and Meadows and Byrne, together with public houses, hotels and bed and breakfast establishments. The former Shannon Shamrock hotel and conference site is designated a Mixed Use Opportunity Site. In addition to being a major tourist hub, Bunratty is an important residential settlement in south Clare situated approximately 5.7km southeast of Shannon and approximately 9km from the Clare/Limerick border. Residential development is predominantly low density in character nestled amongst extensive mature trees and a high quality public realm. Lands in the centre of the village are low lying but rise steeply to the north and northwest where there are extensive views of the estuary, Cratloe Hills and surrounding landscape. Bunratty is located at a bridging point on the Owenogarney River and is visible to passing traffic on the N18.
__________________________________________________________________________________ Draft Clare County Development Plan 2023-2029
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