Mayo County Council seek approval to extend lease of Achill caravan park

MAYO County Council are to seek the approval of councillors to extend the lease of the Keel Caravan Park on Achill Island for another eight years.

Suaimhneas Leisure Ltd, a Athenry-based company which currently operates the Keel Caravan Park on Achill Island, have sought to extend the lease of the caravan park from Mayo County Council by eight years.

The proposal to extend the lease is due to come before the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council on Monday for approval.

The Keel Caravan Park is located on the Keel Sandybanks on Achill Island and is currently operated by Michael and Lisa Fitzsimons who in recent years took over the running of the park.

Suaimhneas Leisure Ltd informed Mayo County Council the lease extension is intended to support their eligibility for funding opportunities, as grant schemes require a longer lease term.

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The lease agreement will be for a term of eight years from January 2026, with an option to extend, subject to review. The lease will cost €20,000 per annum and as part of the agreement, the caravan park must be operating for a minimum of six months of the year.

In his report to the councillors, Michael McDermot, Head of Tourism, Recreation and Amenity stated the property is not required by the council and recommended that the lease agreement be approved.