Woodstock closure to hit Ennis festival appeal

A FINANCIAL assessment on the viability of reopening the Woodstock Hotel, Ennis, which closed with the loss of 60 jobs recently, is being undertaken by the newly appointed receiver.

Gearóid Costelloe of Grant Thornton, Mill House, Limerick, has confirmed he is currently engaging in a viability assessment to determine whether the hotel should be run by the receiver or by a new operator.

Describing the hotel, at Shanaway Road, on the outskirts of Ennis as a “fabulous property” in a superb location, Mr Costelloe confirmed he is keen to reopen this leisure facility if it proved feasible.

Confirming that no decision has been yet, he expects a final decision will be made within the next six weeks.
Mr Costelloe was appointed by Irish Bank Resolution Corporation (formerly Anglo Irish Bank Corporation) to be the receiver and manager of the hotel on January 9 last.

A liquidator was appointed to the company, which operated the hotel, Fortwilliam Catering Limited to deal with its assets and liabilities.

It is understood that a presentation on its assets and liabilities was made at a creditors’ meeting on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Councillor Tony Mulqueen said he understood there were two or three parties who were interested in operating the hotel.

Councillor Mulqueen expressed concern that Ennis would not be able to able to offer enough accommodation in the town for major festivals if the Woodstock Hotel doesn’t re-open.

If the bid to host the All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Ennis next year proves successful, Councillor Mulqyueen pointed out the Woodstock Hotel would be able to play a major role in providing accommodation for visitors.

“I would be concerned if Woodstock Hotel doesn’t reopen. There will be a deficit in terms of venues and accommodation for visitors.

“This would make a big difference if Ennis succeeds in securing the All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in 2014. It has a golf course and leisure centre, which would be attractive for tourists. It would be a good venue for visitors to stay and it would be great to see the 60 people who lost their jobs being reemployed,” he said.

Hopes are high that Ennis can beat off stiff competition from Sligo and to a lesser extent, Drogheda, to claim the coveted honour of hosting the All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in 2014.

A group representing Clare Comhaltas enthusiasts withdrew last year from the bidding, which paved the way for Derry to take the honour this year, which coincides with its status as the United Kingdom City of Culture.

A lot of hard work has been completed by Micheál Ó Riabhaigh and other local Comhaltas members to try and ensure the bid to secure it for Ennis next year will be successful.

A decision on the awarding of the All-Ireland Fleadh is expected to be made this Saturday morning.