Two major projects mooted for Athlone

Athlone could be set for a major economic boost, if two potential projects come to fruition.
Firstly, a US-based biopharmaceutical company is to seek planning permission for a major new development at the IDA Business and Technology Park in Garrycastle, Athlone.
Intarcia Ireland Ltd, is connected to Intarcia Therapeutics, Inc., a rapidly emerging biopharmaceutical firm with headquarters in Boston.
The planning application is for a new three-story administration and laboratory building, spanning almost 4,000 square metres.
Although a spokesperson for the company was not available for comment, it's understood the project could have significant job implications for the Athlone area.
The planning application is expected to be submitted to Westmeath County Council in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, a prominent hotel group is also believed to be considering Athlone as a location for a new development.
The Hanly Group, which operates Lough Rynn and Kilronan Castle hotels, is looking at sites in the Athlone area for a potential hotel development project.
Responding to a queries from the Westmeath Independent, the Hanly Group said it was "at the very early stage of looking at a number of sites in the Athlone area".
"No decisions on plans or locations have been made yet."
Intarcia Therapeutics is working on a product to treat type 2 diabetes, which it is believed may be located in Athlone in the future, if its plans are approved and developed in future years.
News of the biopharma firm’s interest in Athlone emerged locally late last year and the planning notice is firm evidence of the company’s plans.