New ‘World Class’ White Water Rafting Attraction Planned for Dublin – Shane Adlum tells us about the new white water rafting centre heading for George’s Dock
Plans have been unveiled for a brand new, state of the art white-water rafting attraction to be built on George’s dock in the IFSC. Videos and digital photos have been released showing what the new facility will look like once its completed.
The site in the IFSC is currently sitting unused. It had played host to the annual Oktoberfest festival but it was cancelled this year due to the significant increase in the events insurance premium. George’s Dock was also the home to Christmas markets and Spiegeltent concerts in recent years.
This new ‘world class’ white water rafting centre will attract a large number of tourist as well as locals who wish try kayaking, canoeing or river rafting. The council says it expects up to 30,000 people a year to avail of the new facility. Dublin fire brigade and other emergency services will use the facility as a training resource to help prepare them for emergency situations. It will also be used by sports clubs and athletes to train. It is expected to operate from early morning to 10pm at night.
Local councillors have given their approval to the plans and a final decision will be made at a full council meeting shortly. The project could cost around €22m, which will be funded by grants, development levies and City Council borrowing. The new aquatic amenity is expected to generate a substantial operating surplus that should easily cover the costs of loan repayments. If the project is given the green light, construction could start next year and will take 18 months to complete.
