ZIMMER BIOMET has been given planning permission for a new development which will see another 50 jobs created in Shannon.
A planning statement accompanying the application said, “Due to the continued success and expansion of the Zimmer Biomet brand, the business leadership team have chosen to further invest and expand the infrastructure at their Ballycasey Beg facilities.
This expansion shall serve to future proof the business and present a sustainable medium term development of the company’s assets, restating the business commitment to the sites and the Shannon community.”
According to the application the current site “occupies an area of approximately 40,849 square metres with an existing building area of 11,143 square metres, associated yard manoeuvering areas and parking for approximately 122 cars. “
It says that the proposed development would have five parts:
*An extension to the eastern elevation measuring 870 square metres to contain new Clean Rooms and Dispatch facilities.
* A two storey extension to the northern elevation, measuring 580 square metres ground floor and 395 square metres first floor, to contain new staff welfare facilities.
* A single storey extension to the northern elevation, measuring 640 square metres, to contain additional warehousing space.
* A separate new Goods entrance shall be constructed to the front of the site to the east of the existing staff entrance.
* A new staff car park with 32 spaces shall be constructed to the north (rear) of the site and accessed by means of a new entrance.
In conclusion, the planning statement says “In summation, it can be stated that the proposed development will enhance and improve the facilities for the healthcare production plant.
“Whilst enhancing the appearance of the site through the architectural treatments of same, the development also serves to fulfill the immediate requirements of the business whilst creating a masterplan for any future developments on the site or in the vicinity.
“The external work has been designed to improve the existing operations on site and provide Zimmer Biomet with the facilities they require to operate their manufacturing facility.
“The development restates and reinforces Zimmer Biomet’s long held commitment to the local economy and community in general.”
Meanwhile Zimmer Biomet recently launched an annual scholarship award programme, focused on recognising the children of its employees in both Shannon and Galway.
One of the first winners was Ramon Lapurga from Shannon, who has recently started his mechanical engineering studies at the Limerick Institute of Technology.
Ramon said, “One thing that I have earned from both my Irish and Filipino upbringing is the sense of gratitude for opportunities given and making sure that good value is given back to the community, who helped provide that opportunity. Thank you for your confidence in me. I am committed to my education and excited about taking a step closer to becoming an engineer.”
There was another Clare winner, Tara Donnellan from Clarecastle, who is studying nursing at UL.
“Receiving this scholarship paves the way for me to learn more and have a career that I’m proud of while helping people in their time of need. I would like to thank Zimmer Biomet for its fantastic support,” she said.
Speaking about the awards, Claude Costelloe, Site Director of Zimmer Biomet’s Ireland manufacturing facilities, said, “Our Motto is ‘Made as if Intended for my family’’ and each finished orthopaedic device is manufactured as if it was for a member of our own family.
“If the recent pandemic has taught us anything, it is the importance of our families and communities. We already have a comprehensive programme of upskilling and training at our plants, and this initiative is about supporting our Team Members’ dependents on their third level education journey.
“Zimmer Biomet’s success in Ireland can be attributed to our highly skilled and educated team members and this initiative will develop that pipeline further. The Zimmer Biomet STEM Scholarship Award is designed to identify and nurture young talent and support motivated students, passionate about STEM, to enable them to reach their full potential.”
Owen Ryan has been a journalist with the Clare Champion since 2007, having previously worked with a number of other publications in Limerick, Cork and Galway. His first book will be published in December 2024.