The annual general meeting of the Bantry Marine Activities Centre on Friday, December 8, is to hear the details of a feasibility report proposing a major maritime facility in the West Cork town.
Known as ‘Bmac,’ the Bantry Marine Activities Centre is composed of a number of maritime groups in the town, including the Atlantic Challenge and rowing and sailing clubs, with input from other groups focused on setting up a marine centre.
The feasibility report, drawn up after community consultation, proposes a location near the existing Abbey slipway.
Two waterfront buildings are suggested, with workshops, boat storage, public rooms, changing areas and other marine facilities.
Public support in the town is reported to be strong for the project, which would provide a base for the marine sector in the wide expanse of Bantry Bay.
The concept design presented is for two waterfront buildings with roofs that slope to echo the hill behind, and an overhang to create sheltered outdoor spaces for flexible use.
Bmac was established in 2015 to build a shared, multi-purpose and universally accessible marine activities facility on the shores of Bantry Bay.
Early in 2023, AP+E Architects were appointed to develop a feasibility study for the project. They have expertise in relation to small towns, community engagement, as well as spatial and economic analysis.
