Clare GAA’s plans to extend and revamp their Centre of Excellence in Caherlohan have been put on hold due to concerns over the EU-protected Lesser Horseshoe Bat.

Clare County Council is seeking further information or revised plans from the county board due to the presence of the rare species in the nearby Newgrove House which is a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The Lesser Horseshoe Bat is one of the world’s smallest bats and is afforded legal protection through the EU Habitats Directive.

In June, Clare GAA submitted plans for an upgrade of the facility near Tulla, which included an extension to the main building, three new playing pitches, including an all-weather pitch, a new gym, dressing rooms, floodlights and ball wall.

Planning permission is also being sought for the installation of floodlights at two of the pitches and the construction of a new covered spectator stand.

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